Worn rear axle? Grinding noise.

[JOWETTJAVELIN]

In top gear on the overrun there is a grinding and graunching noise coming from somewhere in the transmission. I cannot track this down and haven't yet asked a passenger to do it. We all hear of 'axle noise' but I do not know what a worn diff sounds like.

The gearbox was rebuilt many years ago and can't have more than 10,000 miles on it.

Before you ask the gearbox and axle oils were renewed at the last service and the level maintained.

[Trickydicky]

Has the prop shaft been greased?

[bmcecosse]

Drain the final drive and see if any swarf comes out.......and start looking for a spare axle......

[JOWETTJAVELIN]

Prop shaft greased liberally at specified intervals. Car goes like a good 'un. I do wonder about this noise... is the axle likely to fail suddenly? 90k on it. MoT man noted one rear drum was damp, I assume with oil, haven't been under the car yet.

I expect 803 diffs are plentiful?

I suppose that for the average owner the transmission (other than oil changes) is neglected whilst the engine receives the most attention.

[Trickydicky]

When you say the drums were damp and the oil level maintained, does that mean you are topping up the axle? If that is the case then it sounds like a hub seal has failed.
If it is an axle problem then wouldn't you hear the noise in any gear

[MarkyB]

Are the perches between the axle and rear springs in good nick?
Also are the U bolts holding?

[liammonty]

If you do need a diff, I think I've still got a good one. They're popular for hillclimbing, apparently, as they're so low geared...

[JOWETTJAVELIN]

As soon as I get under the car I'll report back, thanks for the points to check.