I'll find out in a couple of days when I go in to fix whatever it is. Can anybody confirm the the 4 pinion, 30 spline? I called the dealer and they were not able to help me. Maybe I'll call another one, if noone can tell me here.

You can look that information up on your VIN plate:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/ToyVIN.shtml

Ya...I keep some stuff on my shelf for repairs I do....I can help you out if you decide you want it but first you need to determine what the noise really is....it could be squrril bits....or even a wheel bearing. Take the 3rd out and eyeball it. If that is not it make sure you tighten the carrier bearing adjusters for extra strength. That way, it's not a total loss of effort in taking the 3rd out.

Zuk, thank you very much indeed, it will be a couple of days but I will let you know. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Well my saga continues. I do not think it is the differential, but is not totally ruled out. The thump, (now that I have payed special attention to it), seems to be more like a click or a tick but a bit more deep and harsh in sound. I hung my head out the window and it seems to be coming from the differential area. However, I had the wheel up, and carefully spun the shaft and did not feel anything unusual. If there was a chipped tooth, would it need more torque than my hands spinning the shaft provided to surface? The joints seem to be fine, all is tight and the problem is not a vibration, it is a clunky click. I also turned the driveshaft back and forth and a seemingly similar sound came from the transfer case. When driving, I put it back and forth from 2wd-4wd and no difference in sound or feel. Is it possible that the output bearing to the rear driveshaft would make this noise? Could it still be the diff? The rear bearings were replaced 5,000 miles ago, guess it could still be this. Any more troubleshooting methods, thoughts, or anything would be great. P.S. I can feel the tick/click on the transfer case shifter, not violent, but can be felt.

Can it be felt on the gear shifter?

Yup, slightly. But definately as well.

Well finally was able to get the runner up on jack stands and get under it while running. No doubt, there is something wrong with the differential. I'm hoping it is the ring gear, I will be putting a locker in at the same time. Can I do this job myself? Ring, pinion, and lockrite locker? What special tools will I need? With all of the info on the web, I am pretty confident I can get it all together properly. Is this a pipe dream, or can I get it together right?

One place to really look hard....

ZUK's Page

This is something I wouldn't do myself actually. I got no prob ripping out and rebuilding motors/x-fer cases. But not diffs.

Zuk if your around, I PM'd you with some info. Thx Stace, as usual appreciate it. Anybody ever comes to Vegas let me know, I'll show you around, maybe even go wheelin. (If you like that sort of stuff). lol