Rear differential play

2019 TRD sport 4x4

Still trying to track down an elusive drivetrain noise.

Jacked up the rear end, put it in Park and emergency brake disengaged.

Spun the wheels by hand and rocked the bearings. No noise.

BUT, when I spin the wheels back and forth, I hear the diff clunking as I go back and forth. Video below. Is the diff supposed to clunk like this? Should there be this much play/clunk?

https://youtube.com/shorts/Um6X68Jog4E?si=FVB9e9FwUbWvNhSx

 

Looks more or less normal. I can tell you have heard rattling that seems to be coming from the front driveshaft when in 2wd, which allows it to just flop around. It sounds like rattling over bumps in the driveway, and it normal.

 

Yeah, there is typically some slop in differential gearing. It's does not have the tight tolerances that a transmission gear box will have. Is that the cause of your noise; maybe!

 

Hearing more of a rotational/cyclical moan (womp womp womp) that increases with speed only in gear. Sounds like a wheel bearing but they all feel solid. Dealer already replaced the rear drive shaft AND transmission. I guess they only leaves the front diff or transfer case?

 

Sounds like the rear ring and pinion. That’s where I’d start, anyway.