3rd Gen Poll: Rear End Noise howling when feathering throttle

I'm not a mechanic but that sounds to me like something Toyota should be able to diagnose and repair. They haven't been able to yet. Makes me think it's something small they haven't thought of yet.

 

I met with a Regional FTS rep several weeks ago. He told me they were a couple months away from issuing a field fix (TSB) for the howling rear diff. He was unable or unwilling (not sure which) to provide details or speculation on what the root cause is, nor what the solution will be. He was very adamant however that they are aware of it being a widespread issue affecting many owners, and that it is something they're close to having a fix for... also he said the Rear Ends being replaced have been sent back to their "lab" for inspection and to his knowledge all of the internals of the carrier assembly were still within spec. So this indicated that though there is a howling noise, it does not necessarily mean the internal components of the differential are experiencing a negative effect from it.

 

I just have a feeling that it's a small issue they haven't figured out yet. Sounds like he thinks they're getting close.

 

I changed mine as well, but used LS(limited slip) type gear oil and it still whines/howls. The OE was gray.

 

It could be a quality control issue. I am sure their engineers could diagnose this.

 

A case manager called me and wants me to go back to the dealership for them to investigate the second diff howling. So with your experience, it looks like there is a huge communication/process issue. Because if 3 weeks ago the FTS knew about a fix in the works, only a couple months away from release, yet another FTS just authorized a diff replacement and a case manager wants me to GO BACK and have them still look at diff #2....it's like dealing with two different companies completely.

Hopefully it all comes together shortly....

 

Not the solution. In fact could void warranty if/when a more serious problem arises. Not a good recommendation for third gen owners, under warranty, and given the current circumstances with this widely known issue as acknowledge by Toyota. I have been advised by the FTS that if you give them a reason to avoid warranty work, they will likely use it. He advised me to leave stock wheels and tires on the truck and not to change any fluids except for what the manual calls for...Aussie is a GM Tech, and if he wants to go down that path, fine. But he is likely much better equipped to deal with such a scenario should a problem arise down the road, than the average Joe, Tacoma owner would be. You pick your own poison, but to advise others down this path is not kosher IMO.

 

I can respect that and it kind of goes without saying.
I'm just some dude on the internet; just like you.

 

Peace. Tracking with you. And I should say "not the official toyota solution".

 

It's just I've come to find most of my Taco('07+) woes hatched out and solved here on the forum.
Sans a couple transmission re-flashes, I've never had a T-SB come through for me.
I do hope it's different this time around.

Admittedly, I have a bit of a pessimistic/defeatist attitude towards it all with a little masochism thrown on top.
If my diff goes TU, I'll be getting a re-gear.
If the driveshaft/carrier bearing start acting up, I'm getting a one piece CV.
If the springs start squeaking, new leaf springs.
They're all things I planned on doing anyway.
I also plan on keeping the truck at least 10 years.

I get wanting to use the warranty.
But with what I lose in wages messing with Toyota, with no promise of resolution, I prefer to hedge my bet.

 

Completely understandable.

 

That makes two people hearing from Toyota that they know it is a problem, and fix is on the way!

 

the Diff fluid was low???? daymn. how much fluid does the diff hold?

 

Hopefully this fix will be hear when my truck goes in for 5000 mile service. I'm at about 3000. Don't drive it everyday.

 

1.25 quarts in the rear and .5 in the front.
Diffs with the locker hold 4-4.2 quarts.

 

wow!

 

this is interesting

 

Just a little info to you canadians and pur neighbours in merica, i have went to the dealership they drove my truxk heard thw whine in the rear they are aware of it and told me they dont have a solution to this noise and when they do they will call me in for the fix. SO basically as everyone has already heard for the 50th time or so...it is known and dont know how to fox it yet. Yay....but on the plus side i changed my quick signal from 3 to 4 blinks now in that same visit. Time well spent wooo

 

they are going to change out rear diff.in mine this coming week...have a feeling it's going to do the same thing...Doug in Pa.

 

Good luck!! If it fixes yours it will be the first I know of. Surprised they're still replacing diffs. Really hope it works out for you though.