Vibration

Few vibration conditions are caused by the axle. Most vibration in the rear end is caused by tires or driveline angle.

Vehicles equipped with a traction-lok differential will always have both wheels driving. If, while the vehicle is being serviced, only one wheel is raised off the floor and the rear axle is driven by the engine, the wheel on the floor could drive the vehicle off the safety stand. Ensure both rear wheels are raised off the floor.

Tires

Some vehicles are equipped with directional tires (see tire rotation arrows on tire sidewall). If a directional tire is removed for service, It must be remounted in its original location.

Do not balance the rear wheels and tires while they are mounted on the vehicle. Possible tire disintegration and/or differential failure could result, causing personal injury and/or extensive component damage. Use off-vehicle wheel and tire balancer only.

A vibration can sometimes be corrected by properly rotating or inflating the tires. The best tires should be placed on the rear to minimize vibration, especially on vehicles with rear coil springs.

Driveline Angle

An incorrect driveline (pinion) angle can often be detected by the driving condition when vibration occurs.
1. A vibration during coasting from 35 to 45 mph is often caused by a high pinion angle.
2. A vibration during acceleration from 35 to 45 mph may indicate a lower than specified pinion angle.