4x4 problem

[scottieD]

I am hoping that some of you very knowledgeable folks out there can shed some light on a problem I have with my 4x4 on my 94 ex LTD.
Now that lots snow has arrived here in Vancouver, I went to use my 4x4, I locked the manual hubs and pushed the 4x4 button, but when I went to drive off the steering felt very wierd, like it was being grabbed, or it felt like it was indexed and wanted to stay in a certain position.
Does anyone have any idea what is causing this, is it to do with the hubs?
I would be most grateful for any information.

 

[94Sport5Sp]

Hi:

Are you familiar with the hop you get when you are in 4x4 and you turn sharp? This hop is caused by the front axel u-joints and I believe the u-joints are causing your problem.

To test you need to get the front wheel(s) off the ground, lock the hubs, turn the steering slightly (not sharp), and turn the front wheel by hand. If you feel resistance than the u-joints are dry and seizing. I suspect both u-joints so test both wheels.

PaMnd

 

[DeRocha]

How long have you had the vehicle and how did it perform in 4x4 the last time you used it?

When U-Joints are worn they will no longer rotate/ articulate smoothly and this wear is felt as heavy/harsh steering (almost as if you were driving on dry pavement in 4x4). In normal 4x4 operation on snow there should be almost no difference in steering feel/noise when going straight vs taking a turn. With worn U-joints 4x4 operation on snow will feel alot more noisy/harsh when Turning compared to going straight.

 

[scottieD]

I have had the vehicle for 2 years now and the 4x4 was fine the last time I used it which would have been last winter, around April I think, the steering feels strange when I am going straight or turning, it difficult to describe but I would say it feels like you are driving in a rut which is grabbing at the wheels.
Thakns for the input thus far, and I look forward to more informed comments.

 

[DeRocha]

U-Joints last around 100K miles, Less if the vehicle is used Off-Road. Since you have manual hubs you can test each axle shaft independently..

In 2W just lock one hub and then take a drive (still in 2W).. The locked hub will cause the axle shaft to rotate and any U-joint problems should be noticeable. Unlock the hub and repeat for the other side.