I believe my rear end is shot in my 2000 Jimmy. Terrible grinding noise. If I just remove the rear drive shaft and drive in FWD, I guess the rear diff will even destroy itself and could be worse or lock up. I was getting rid of the Jimmy anyway due to an accident and insurance is going to total it but I need to find another car first.

 

Go to scrap yard and find the same size rear end. Cheap and quick.

 

Too bad you don't live near me. I have a whole rear axle in my garage that I'd give you for free.

 

Removing it may sound good in theory but when removed there is nothing to keep transfer case fluid from leaking out as the drive shaft slip joint seals the tail shaft.