drivetrain whine, help please

[h_2_o]

I have a 96 ranger 5sp 2wd. I've noticed a loud whine noise coming from the drivetrain somewhere. I changed out the gearbox fluid and that did not help at all. I have not messed with the rear axel as of yet. I notice that it is louder when i am crusing and i put it in neutral rather than when in gear. if anyone has any ideas what it might be or where to look please let me know.

thanks

 

[aldive]

Have you checked the wheel bearings?

Good luck ......

 

[h_2_o]

to be honest i havn't checked the wheel bearings. I've been too one track minded thinking it is in between the transmission and rear diff. are the wheel bearings on a ranger able to be tested by the jack up and pull wheel really hard method or is there some other easy method?

 

[IZwack]

yeah the wheel bearings can be checked with that method. but while you're checking the wheel bearings, check for play in the pinion too.