[blazer2007]

1980 12 bolt open diff that was rebuilt 3 or so years ago with new everything gears, wheel bearings etc. I just need to know. Rear started making a howling noise at all speeds like a bad semi tire on the highway. thought it was wheel bearing but no, spider gears no, still had a ratcheting sound when turning the pinion yolk by hand. Took out carrier and still the noise. Took out the pinion and the outer bearing was pitted and all other bearings are good. Replaced the bad bearing and all is good so far. No slop in the pinion yoke when disassembled like a normal pinion bearing fail. I just want to know why that little bit of pitting could make such a terrible noise. I know he used a impact to install the pinion but at that time I did know that was a no no. Yes I used a new crush sleeve.