Diff's can make some strange noise's when "free spinning" as in not being driven.
Where both hub's fully engaged?? if one was only 1/2 engaged it would make lovely noises...
take it to a grassy/dirt patch, slot 4wheel & lock the front, low speed turning on & off acc should load the cv's enough to let you know if that are buggered, thay put out a cackler/clatter noise when buggered..
What part of the shire you from??
