I've taken my Firebird out a few times since the rear axle change and I am trying to get use to the difference in the gear ratio. The 3.36 posi made a big change in the gearing compared to the open 2.73's. It pulls out much better now.

I thought I would ask a few questions. The new gearing seems to be a slight rougher feel. I don't know if that description is a really correct, sort of hard to explain but it just seems you can tell the gearing is different as you go down the road at 45. I don't know if it is the difference in a posi compared to open carrier or the gearing. Maybe because I'm running at 500 more rpms. There is no shake, wobble or major vibration really, just more auditable sound vibrations then I got before that seems to originate from the rear. But as I feel this rougher noticeable feeling I start wondering about the bearings and other components.

The one piece sealed axle bearings seemed ok when I checked them. They felt smooth and no noticeable issues but I was wondering what signs would I be noticing if a axle bearing was bad? If a axle bearing does go bad, what happens? The axle is bolted in so the axle will not fly apart will it?

What exactly should I look for in a bad axle bearing?

Bad axle bearings can make a thumping noise. I have had to replace a couple in the past. Don't think your axle is coming out even with the failure of the bearing. If a ball bearing comes out the wheel will make a lot of noise and vibration.

I replaced all bearings, seals and gaskets on mine. Preventive failure maint...

Usually a few trips before they go they will begin to rumble and then squeal and then bang-bang. Much like a u joint failure. First indicator would be lift the wheel off the ground and see if there is up and down movement. Easy nough to pull the axle and take a look. Most of the time the trouble will be the bearing spins on the axle and it's no longer a good tight fit. At that point your axle is pretty much toast.

I bet I know what the problem is. Your universal is getting ready to come apart

Yep, better get that checked before something bad happens.

I put new Spicer joints in and made sure the C-Clips are locked in this time.

I took the drive shaft over to a local drive line shop so they could make sure it was balanced. He recommended to change ends where my slip yoke was because he likes to run the drive shaft with the less weight ( needed to balance ) at the transmission and the most required weight (needed to balance) at the rear.

So he moved the slip joint to the other end. Checked the balance and he said it was perfect. It did not need any additional balancing.

I still think the feeling I initially felt is related to the gearing ( hope not a axle bearing) but will be able to tell more after another test ride with a fixed U-joint.

Went out for a test ride and things seem to be quiteier and a little smoother now.

I think I need my shaft balanced. Can't get rid of a vibration on my car. Do all auto shops perform this maintenance? Thanks.

You really need to watch what you type on this forum.

My thoughts exactly...lmao!!!

Ooops! LMAO!!

Watch out! He's at it again!

Balanced? Why? Polished maybe...good vibration is goooood for both of yah. Maybe, but massage shops are better ... lol