Squeeking from front driveshaft

[srbianats]

Hello all. I have a 2005 Trailblazer EXT 4wd. I have an issue with my front driveshaft. I have been hearing a squeeking in a tin can kind of sound. It is kind of hard to describe. I thought front brakes. Checked them and they are fine. I crawled up under the front end and took off the skid shield to look around. Since it was in 2wd I tried to turn the front driveshaft by hand and there was the sound. The driveshaft does turn and the sound was appearing to come from the front diff. I thought "Oh Crap" is there fluid in the front diff. It would make sence if it was empty to make a sound like this. I unscrewed the filler hole and there was fluid. Then I decided to flush and fill the front diff with fresh fluid. It was pretty dark and I don't know when the last time the front diff was serviced. I took it out for test drive and still have the noise. What i am asking now is what to look for next? Like I said, when turning the front driveshaft by hand in 2wd it makes that sound.

Edit: By the way, 4wd works just fine in all modes.

[gmtech1]

There is a seal on the intermediate shaft bearing thats squeaks like you are describing. That is probably what you are hearing. The bearing assy will need replaced to correct it. It is where the axle goes through the oil pan.

[GMCustomerService]

I understand that you're looking for some troubleshooting tips; if you decide to work with a dealership on this, I just wanted to offer whatever assistance I can provide! I hope you're able to get this resolved soon, either way.

All the best,
Sarah
GM Customer Service

[srbianats]

Thank you for the input. I will have some reading to do to understand the front diff in more detail. I have a trusted shop I can take it to so they can verify what your saying. I'm not sure if this is something I want to take on or just take it in. If it is what your describing, what would be the cost to have it fixed?

I usually do my own repairs unless it's something that is out of my comfort zone and I do push my comfort zone a bit. Hell, my 98 blazer has 215,000 miles on it and still chugs along. I work on it myself.

Is the Trailblazer still driveable in this state? I am only asking because I will be getting my tax refund in another 3 weeks.

[gmtech1]

I'm not sure on the parts cost, labor should be 2.0-2.5hrs. Yes, you can drive it, the noise is the seal rubbing on the axle shaft. There in no fluid to leak, the seal is to protect the shaft bearing from dirt/debris.
The right side axle needs to come out and the bearing assy is bolted to the oil pan.

[srbianats]

Thank you gmtech1. This is good info. I will read up. Might try it myself if it's in my comfort zone. Take care.

[driveraven]

I would check your CV joints, just had to replace one in my car. Your squeeking sounds exactly what mine was doing until I replaced it.