Hey guys, I've been having a lot of problems with my truck as of late and I guess this is the next one on my list...

87 Blazer
6.2L Diesel
8 1/2 inch Ring Gear Diff

So I've been getting this loud whining noise coming from the back end(only when gas is applied) that's just been getting worst and worst.

I think its something in the diff maybe the gears are warn?

I have taken a look inside the diff not that long ago and everything looked ok, but remember I'm not a mechanic so unless something really pops out I probably won't notice.

Anyways if it is the rear end what's my next step? Buy new gear and replace them?

 

rebuild the diff bearings ring and pinion set everything. sounds like that is your problem

 

Is this something I could do on my own or should I get a shop to do it?

 

if you have never done it i would recommend a shop doing it to make sure the gears set up properly. I would have someone confirm that it is the rear so you dont end up just throwing money at it.

 

Ya good idea, I'll try to find a good shop.

 

just search craigslist and find a good used rear axle. these things are considered boat anchors to alot of people andd people will sell them dirt cheap especially after upgrading to one ton axles (hint hint). the last set of 10 bolt axles i got i actually got for free from a friend of a friend so he didnt have to take to them to the scrap yard. getting that axle rebuilt is probably gonna run 6-700 bucks depending on where you take it.

 

Well I was going to just swap it, but I'm having troubles finding them not many for sale.

I'm gonna see what they quote me, I'm not gonna pay $600 for a rebuild. For that much I could get an axle with a locker.

My only issue is that my leafed are in bad shape and I'm afraid at they will fall apart when I unbolt the axle.

 

thats a good thing, the way i look at it. better for them to fall apart now then while youre driving it.

i bought rear springs from a spring shop in town, but this was like 8 years ago, and they were only like 100 bucks

heres some locally by me

1/2 ton axle pair 3.08 $200.
springs; 1/2T $40. pair
chicago all for sale / wanted classifieds "chevy axle blazer" - craigslist


and 3.08 should be what gear you have in that truck if they are stock. i sound like a old man but i miss the good ol days before scrap got high where you could just buy entire k5 blazers for $100 cause people just wanted them off their property

 

abig84 is right, those 1/2 axles are easier than hell to find. My dads rear axke in his 88 c1500 whined to all hell and i still drove the hell out of it, but dont recommend that lol. especially if your springs are rusted. i have a 91 K5 6.2 and am upgrading to 3/4ton axles so i will have 2 front 1/2s and one 1/2 rear in the next couple months but you probably need them now. Oh and i miss those days too abig lol, i was only 13-14 when that time was but it was still sweet times lol