Saturn Repair: 1997 SL1 transmission gear whine, saturn dealer, trans shop

Question
I bought a 97 SL1 in Sept 2005 with 46,000 miles on it. I noticed at 20 to 30 mph there was a whinning noise from the transmission. I took it to the Saturn dealer where I bought it and they said it was normal for my year. I took it to a trans shop and they said it was the differential.They said wait until it worsens then bring it in to tighten up a shaft nut. Is this normal for a 97? Otherwise its a great car, the transmission shifts beautifully. The Saturn dealer tried to find another 97 SL1 to prove it was normal but couldn't.I don't want to damage the differential or transmission with continued usage if possible.

Answer
Ed,
 Normal? Maybe, maybe not.  However, I will say that I have heard that noise on more than a few dozen Saturns of that year range (96-99).  If you let the trans shop talk you into a "shaft nut tightening procedure", then you need to find a new trans shop.  The only thing you need to watch out for on that transmission (I assume it's an auto) is a slam or delay into reverse.  That's when you need to let someone get into your transmission to see what's going on.  The differential on that vehicle (unless it throws a diff. pin) is almost bullet proof.  Just don't take the vehicle into the mud or try to spin the tires alot.  Otherwise, a 97 SL1 with 46K is a good find.  That car, with proper maintenance, will last you another 100K.  Best of luck to you Ed,

Chris