[SEL] Way OT...2002 Avalanche 1500 front differential

[Richard Strobel]

  I'm at loss here gang and need some advice.  My grandson's 2002 Avalanche 
1500, with small V-8 has a terrible sound in the front end..both in 2wd and 
worse in 4wd.  I believe I've found the problem with the left output(flange) 
on the front differential.  The axial play on that flange is well over a 
quarter of an inch.  The differential assy. looks to be a straight up remove 
and replace but was wondering if anyone on the list has had the same 
encounter and if there were any surprises.

  The internet is not much help...a shop manual costs 120 rockets.

Today I will drain the diff. fluid and see if it's throwing metal.

Any help is APPRECIATED,
RickinMt.