the rear is makeing a "howling" noise and i checked it with the weight off it and the pinion goes in and out about 1/4 inch or so. i have a few questions
i dont know what rear end i have ? it has 10 bolts on the cover and the gears are 3.73 its a 2001 tahoe with a 5.3
the auto parts store says i may one of 3? rear ends i know its not a 14 bolt. so without tearing it apart to measure the diameter of the ring gear i thought one of you may know? the vin is, 1GNEK13T31J131664.

thanx in advance

 

Just call the dealer the can give u the info

 

The dealer will most likely tell you that your rear differential is an 8.6”, while in reality it is an 8.625” and to further try and confuse you the gears from an 8.5” are also the same. The difference as far as you are concerned is in the bearings, and you will need the appropriate bearings for the re-build. Check out one of our sponsors, as they can set you up with what you need without any more worries on your part as to whether or not you are getting the right parts. Ron’s Machining Service usually has the best prices and offers great assistance, but the parts are available elsewhere and give you great flexibility in shopping.

 

I know there's a thread floating around here or LS1 that gives you the break-down on a VIN... I'm still looking for it.