Rear Drive Axle Whine Noise (Replace Slip Yoke Assembly)

This bulletin is being revised to include additional model information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 06-04-17-002 (Section 04 -- Driveline/Axle).

Some customers may comment on a slight axle whine noise heard only at certain speeds, typically on coast conditions between 72-96 km/h (45-60 mph).

"Inherent" ring and pinion gear whine. All gear driven units, such as automotive rear axles, produce some level of noise that cannot be eliminated with conventional adjustments and repairs. "Inherent" axle noise can be described as a slight noise heard only at a certain speed (typically between 72-96 km/h (45-60 mph) on most General Motors® trucks). The presence of this noise is not indicative of a functional concern with the axle assembly. However, some customers may find that this "inherent" axle noise is unacceptable.

Using the service procedures in SI, replace the propshaft front slip yoke and u-joint with a tuned damper slip yoke with u-joint assembly, P/N 19151749, ONLY after diagnosis concludes that it is an "inherent" rear axle noise and no physical damage or incorrect adjustment exists.

Do NOT replace the propshaft assembly.

Important:  If the noise is not correctly diagnosed as "inherent" and having a peak in the narrow speed range of 72-96 km/h (45-60 mph), the addition of a tuned damper slip yoke and u-joint can aggravate the perceptible noise level. It is extremely important to first diagnose the rear axle noise as "inherent".

Refer to the following diagnostic information and procedure for rear axle noise in SI:

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: