Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 4x4 noise from front end

[EBung]

When under power [moderate to full] I have been experiencing a groaning type of vibration coming from either my front diff or t-case. It is hard to explain but it is 4x4 related for sure. I have yet to pull the front cover but I inspected the u-joints in the driveshaft and axles and they're good. It seems like something cant handle the power and is about to let go. If I drive around easy all is well but if I get in to it half throttle or more it starts to groan and a slight vibration you can feel under your feet. HELP i'm worried. I dont want to be scared to toast a furd or a chivvy. :{

 

[steved]

Sounds like a ujoint seizing up... it will not be easy to diagnose without pulling the driveshaft.



Unless you have the noise only when in 4wd, I doubt it is in the front diff...



steved

 

[EBung]

Yes I do only have it in 4wd. My truck only has 52k on it to.

 

[steved]

Yes I do only have it in 4wd. My truck only has 52k on it to.

Things I would check:



Front wheel bearings.



Front driveshaft ujoints (pull the shaft).



With the front wheels off the ground and the truck in 4wd, see how hard it is to turn one wheel...



With the front wheels off the ground and in 2wd, see how easy the front driveshaft turns...



steved