Chevrolet Repair: rear axel lubricant, axle bearings, drive train

Question
Hello Van:

Listening for a roadnoise that I was sure was coming from the drive train and thought it might be from the rear axel.  How does one check the fluid level?  The only connection to it seems to be a sort of breather hose.
I have a 92 chevy s-10, 4.3 liter engine, 4-wheel drive.

Answer
Hello Joe,
Near the driveshaft, there should be a plug screwed into the rear end that uses a 3/8 drive ratchet extension. Remove it, and see if you can touch the oil inside with a finger.

Other possible causes of the noise are tires, and axle bearings.

Van