whining noise in rear end

[lakesidepark]

Catera just hit 140K miles, today is third day of long road trip. Today outside Columbus the rear end started a loud whining noise, I pulled off the exit, and the noise is linked to the speed. I drove it a bit to hear it, didn't hear any popping or crackling, didn't find any loose wheel. Drove on to Louisville and stopped for the night. The whine changes tone with the load, sounds centered in the rear but sometimes sounds like it is coming from the right or left rear.

Found a spot of oil under the rear after I parked it. Looks like it has been seeping for a bit. Wish I'd checked it sooner but all the front end stuff that they all need kept me busy.

I read and copied the link for the previous post for changing the diff fluid. I am hoping to find someone that will put it on the rack and put some fluid in it so I can make it the last 3 hours home.

I'll keep ya advised. If anyone has advice for me before morning, post quick, or the next time ya see me its a done deed, cause otherwise I'm getting some oil in it and hittin da road. hope it don't end up as a flat bed ride

[lakesidepark]

No flat bed, I'm home with the car. The diff was dry, the verdict (at a minimum) is scalded bearings, I'm betting on entire diff rebuild.

I will be doing this one myself. I just spent the dealer's money on another vehicle to get around (at least I can get that money back when I sell it - I went for an old truck that has all the parts at the locak Auto Zone).

What am I looking at for a complete rebuild? Do I have to source all the parts from the stealership? Order all of them with ex. VAT exchange pricing?

Sarcasm aside (I'm a little aggravated that the Cat is taking more time...and that I never checked the diff oil), does anyone have any wisdom to share on this one?

I'll trade my wisdom....don't leave the rear end off the checklist like I did. The old ford truck don't ride like that cat does.