2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Front axle trying to engage while driving?

[crudd]

My '98 12v, 5spd, 4x4 started making a grinding/jerking/grabbing noise sometimes while driving, especially under a load. If I put it in 4 wheel drive, it totally goes away. I'm thinking it must be the front axle trying to engage. It did it a couple of times and then didn't do it again for 1000 miles. Now it is doing it most everytime I drive it. Has anyone dealt with this before? Any ideas?



Thanks.

 

[Fishin Guide]

Check your vacuum lines for cracked broken parts. Also, check the actuator.



Dave

 

[pwknapp]

Have your transfer case checked out. Mine started trying to shift into 4 wheel drive when I would let off the go pedal. Had to have it rebuilt and not a problem since. That was at 360k.

 

[Kirwin]

Transfer case thrust washer

There can be a problem with a transfer case thrust washer that allows the transfer case to try to engage 4WD with the truck moving. This occurs when the thrust washer breaks and thus allows the shafts in the transmission to move forward which is the same as engaging 4wd with the shift lever except that it doesn't ever complete the shift. Due a search on transfer case and I'm sure you will find the fix. It was in the September 2003 or so Four Wheeler magazine. Hope this helps Ken Irwin

 

[SMorneau]

A broken snap ring on the output shaft will make it grind terribly but it will stop when you are in 4x4. It is easy enough to check it is right inside the cone shaped housing and is held in place by four bolts.