I have an 86 Trans AM, 4 wheel disc, and I believe it has a 9 bolt Borg Warner Posi rearend. .. Not positive though as I am not real familiar with third gens, and am not the original owner.

My right rear wheel/axle bearing seems to be making noise. I took it to a shop to get the bearing replaced. They pulled the differential cover and said they don't recognize what is inside and don't know how to get it apart, so the put it back together and didn't charge me.

Just got it back from the shop, and the reason they won't do it is because it has been modified and has an aftermarket mechanical limited slip differential. I didn't put it there, and the guy I bought it from years ago didn't mention it.

Anyone know of a reasonable place in NE Florida that can do the work?

 

Well I have been told now that it might be the shop just doesn't know what they are doing and it is probably a stock cone type posi, and the rearend doesn't need to be opened to pull the axles. Still not sure I want to try it myself. But might be easier to find a shop.

 

Also, I am hearing a faint scraping sound coming from what seems to be the right rear, but it is quiet enough I only noticed it because the stereo quit working and even then it is only noticeable above about 30 mph. It sounds almost like when a drum brake drags, but not as loud.

I am assuming this is the right rear wheel bearing, as I have checked the disc and caliper in the back and they seem fine. Is there anything else it could be?

Also when I had the rear tire off I could not turn the disc with my bare hands, I had to put the tire back on for leverage. Is this normal or does it indicate a problem with the rear end?

 

You are correct, the 9-bolt has no C-clips and the axle shafts can be removed without taking the cover off, The seals are avaible and are side specific (left & right). However ,you will need to press the bearing off and at this point I would replace them. If the job is above your skill level, I would find a shop that knows what they are doing . Just inform them it is a BW axle so they can look it up.

 

Thanks a lot, I don't really think the job is above my skill level, just way above my time and frustration level. I think I found a shop, won't know until tomorrow.