Drivetrain - Whine Type Noise From Vehicle rear
Bulletin No.: 07-04-17-002Date: October 25, 2007
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Whine Type Noise Coming from Rear of Vehicle (Diagnose and Replace Rear Propeller Shaft)
Models:
2007-2008 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab, Ext Cab Standard (Regular) Box (1500 Series) (2WD Only)
2007-2008 Chevrolet Tahoe (2WD Only) with 4L60-E Automatic Transmission (RPO M30) (EXCEPT Police Package (RPO PPV))
2007-2008 GMC Sierra Crew Cab, Ext Cab Standard (Regular) Box (1500 Series) (2WD Only)
2007-2008 GMC Yukon (2WD Only) with 4L60-E Automatic Transmission (RPO M30)
Condition
Some customers may comment on a slight whine noise coming from the rear of the vehicle at certain speeds, typically between 72-96 km/h (45-60 mph).
Cause
Rear axle "Inherent" ring and pinion gear whine.
All gear driven units, such as automotive rear axles, produce some level of noise that cannot be eliminated with conventional adjustments and repairs. "Inherent" axle noise can be described as a slight noise heard only at a certain speed (typically between 72-96 km/h (45-60 mph) on most General Motors(R) trucks). The presence of this noise is not indicative of a functional concern with the axle assembly. However, some customers may find that this "inherent" axle noise is unacceptable.
Correction
Replace the rear propeller shaft with an aluminum service shaft (utilities) or with a tuned torsional damper shaft (pickups) ONLY after a road test and diagnosis concludes that it is an "inherent" rear axle noise and no physical damage or incorrect adjustment exists.
If the noise is not correctly diagnosed as "inherent" and having a peak in the narrow speed range of 72-96 km/h (45-60 mph), the addition of a tuned torsional damper propeller shaft can aggravate the perceptible noise level. It is extremely important to first diagnose the rear axle noise as "inherent" before installing a new tuned torsional damper propeller shaft.
Diagnostic Information and Procedures Available in SI for Rear Axle Noise
Diagnostic Starting Point - Rear Drive Axle
Symptoms - Rear Drive Axle
Rear Drive Axle Noises
Noisy in Drive
Noisy When Coasting
The Cadillac Escalade already has a released propeller shaft damper for production. It has a different u-joint size than the 2WD Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, so the service propeller shaft in this bulletin would not work on these vehicles. The Escalade has a swaged steel tube shaft with a damper on the end.
Parts Information
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use the table.
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