Drivetrain Problem 4x4

[hermitrl]

Hello all. I recently got a 92 Explorer with the 4.0 OHV and manual hubs. I used the four wheel drive twice now in snow conditions and every time I get an awful smell of differential fluid from the front end. There seems to be no leaks and the four wheel drive works fine. I am trying to figure out what the heck it could possibly be---a hot bearing maybe? If it was the bearing, would it not do the same in 2 wheel drive? Any help would be greatly appreciated. This has occurred after driving 15 miles or so in four wheel drive at around 55 miles an hour. Roads were snow covered and slippery.

 

[i8u]

Check your transfrer case and front differential case fluid to see if it is burned.

 

[hermitrl]

If the fluid is burned--what would that mean? I really need some help here as my budget is extremely tight at the moment and a breakdown will leave me financially embarrassed.

 

[Opera House]

The diferential doesn't turn unless it is in 4WD. Both the auto hubs and transfer case disconnect in 2WD. I would certainly check the fluid. For you to smell it, some damage must have been done.