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Old 12-23-2006, 09:07 PM   #1
bmartin9122
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buzzing/vibrating sound means failing bearings?

I have noticed this odd intermittent buzzing sound for quite some time now. It has gotten a bit more insistent of late, and I am wondering if I am about to have a failure. It sounds like it may be coming from the transfer case or front driveline somewhere.

The 3-spd tranny was completely rebuilt in January (about 11 months ago). It is noticeable at high speeds when the driveline is not under a bind due a hill or the accelerator pedal. Any ideas? or concern for my safety once I am marooned somewhere?

Thanks! -Bryan
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Old 12-24-2006, 09:05 AM   #2
grinch4om
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Re: buzzing/vibrating sound means failing bearings?

Merry Christmas! You might want to double check all fasteners under the truck, from bell housing back to the rear end. Also chock your wheels! Safety first!Put in neutral,and check those u-joints and the carrier bearing if equiped.
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Old 12-24-2006, 03:32 PM   #3
bmartin9122
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Re: buzzing/vibrating sound means failing bearings?

Thanks.

Someone told me these old transfer cases have a chain that develops slop over time. Could this also be a potential source?
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79 GMC Sierra Grande K15
--PPG paint code 62608 Sunburst Orange Metallic (WA802K)
--Gentex auto-dimming rearview mirror model K31
--Carriage Works billet grille model 40071
--Go Industries 2.5" tubular stainless headache rack
--Sylvania Silverstar sealed headlights model H6024ST
--Texas Saddlebags center console model 101
--Brown's Welding class IV V-5 pipe bumper
--Ramsey RE8000 winch
--33" tires
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Old 12-24-2006, 03:43 PM   #4
edman87
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Re: buzzing/vibrating sound means failing bearings?

What trans and transfer case do you have? You said 3 speed and have the 79 in your sig, so I would assume you have a th350/ np205 combo? The 205 is gear drive. Check the oil level in it first, and check you u-joints.
Hard to tell what you are calling a buzzing, most of this drivetrain will make more of a growl if worn or low on oil.
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Old 12-25-2006, 03:05 AM   #5
bmartin9122
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Thumbs up Re: buzzing/vibrating sound means failing bearings?

Quote:
Originally Posted by edman87 View Post
What trans and transfer case do you have? You said 3 speed and have the 79 in your sig, so I would assume you have a th350/ np205 combo? The 205 is gear drive. Check the oil level in it first, and check you u-joints.
Hard to tell what you are calling a buzzing, most of this drivetrain will make more of a growl if worn or low on oil.
The TH350 is correct - I can't say for sure what the transfer case is. I know it is pure stock, so I guess NP205 is a safe bet. I'll take the truck in this next week to take a look-see. No chain, huh? I wonder why my shop suggested that.

The best way to describe the sound is like spinning a hard-plastic wheel on a metal shaft without lubrication or bearings. I have heard this sound (though a different pitch) when trying to get my son's Cub Scout pinewood derby car wheels to rotate smoothly.

Thank you for the ideas!
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79 GMC Sierra Grande K15
--PPG paint code 62608 Sunburst Orange Metallic (WA802K)
--Gentex auto-dimming rearview mirror model K31
--Carriage Works billet grille model 40071
--Go Industries 2.5" tubular stainless headache rack
--Sylvania Silverstar sealed headlights model H6024ST
--Texas Saddlebags center console model 101
--Brown's Welding class IV V-5 pipe bumper
--Ramsey RE8000 winch
--33" tires

Last edited by bmartin9122; 12-25-2006 at 03:05 AM.
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