Popping from 8.25 when parked?

[bigolexj]

After driving for 15 mins or so at highway speeds, my 8.25 makes a loud popping noise for about an hour or so after it's parked. It sounds like a loud popping sound is coming from the cover area and the diff is hot to the touch (will burn you after holding hand on the cover for 10 seconds or so).

What could be causing this? Do I need to be worried?

Thanks

 

[CHUGLYxj]

I'd start with checking fluid level in the diff, also would not be a bad idea to change the fluid and check for issues.

 

[bknudtsen]

Check to make sure that the vent line is not kinked or clogged. I would change the fluid for sure. Maybe you have water in there?

 

[aszaunmi]

Get a pan, put it onder the diff and pull the cover. Inspect everything. You may want to put it up on jackstands and spin the wheels and inspect the gearing while you are changing the fluid.

 

[cwlongshot]

I'll bet your bearings, at least one of them, is toast.

The axle should be warm to hot, after an extended highway run. But you should be able to hold your hand on it and not get burned.

Sorry dude,
CW

 

[Dan Fredrickson]

I will second on the bearings, the popping is the metal cooling.

 

[bigolexj]

It was the bearings. They are shavings in the drain pan now. Oh well, I figure it was about time to re-gear and put the no-slip in finally.