4wd issues... help!

[bklusa1]

Hey! I'm having an issue with my 4wd and was wondering if you might be able to shed some light on it for me. A little background info first, I purchased my '03 XLT V6 back in september. Haven't had any issues at all yet and this weekend we got hit hard with some snow (to the tune of about 20"). Anyhow, when I'm in 4x4 auto none of this happens fyi. Whenever I'm in 4x4 high, and not turning or anything, everything seems to be fine, no noises or anything... however the problem lies when I'm turning. Whenever I'm turning the wheel pretty hard, there is a grinding/rubbing/whining sound that comes from the front wheel area and you can feel the wheels trying to grab and slip or something along those lines (might be something not catching when going into 4wd?)... Have you ever seen or heard of an issue like this before? This happens on dry pavement as well, not only in snow/slush. Thank you in advance for any help you can provide!

 

[Glen4X4]

It sounds as if you're binding the front end and you can't be doing this because it will cause premature wear on the front end, if you get that feeling go back into 4auto. You can only use 4high and low when you have slippy conditions or off road conditions.

 

[Clem]

This probably isn't the answer, but, when you are in 4HI or LOW, you shouldn't try to turn the wheels lock to lock. Using a longer turning radius in 4 wheel drive will keep your front end in one piece longer and eliminate the binding of the front axles. If you have to back up a little to make the turn, it is a lot less expensive in the end.

Ray