Front diff popping??

[jayhawkexplorer]

Hey guys,
I've got a '97 XLT 4WD, bone stock, only had it since July. I don't know if this is normal due to the Auto 4WD or not. Whenever I shift into reverse or drive, I wait a second and let it start rolling on its own before I hit the gas but when I do hit the gas, there's a small popping noise from the front end. I assumed it was the front wheels engaging but I don't know if I should hear it like that. Is that normal?? Thanks for your help!

 

[jayhawkexplorer]

nobody has any ideas???

 

[DeRocha]

I have a first gen and if I were to select 4x4 mode the autohubs would make a slight noise when the vehicle direction was reversed. This is because they must be lock into the direction of travel. If I were in 4x4 going forwared the hubs would be lock forward. If I then kept 4x4 on, but when into reverse for 10 feet the autohubs would unlock, then relock in the reverse direction. So any noise would only happen if reversing direction with the 4x4 ON. I am assuming this popping does NOT occur after the initial pop (unless you go into reverse) ?

There should be zero noise associated with unlocking and only a slight noise when a hub locks.

 

[jayhawkexplorer]

Yeah, it only happens when I'm in Auto 4WD, which is always since I don't have a 2WD option (wish I did). The popping happens once in a while when I'm accelerating, and I'm guessing that's bad. Any ideas what could cause it?

 

[97BlackX5.0]

do you have a v6 or v8.... if you have the 8 you dont have hubs becausey u have all wheel drive.... i have a similiar clunk in mine and i have the awd..... i always chalked it up to some play in the transfer case and joints....

 

[97BlackX5.0]

im about to replace my u joints to see if this helps at all... but im not about to start chucking money at it just because it clunks at me fords drive systems make some weird noises sometimes... but sometimes thats just the way it is with fords ....

 

[jayhawkexplorer]

Originally posted by 97BlackX5.0
do you have a v6 or v8.... if you have the 8 you dont have hubs becausey u have all wheel drive.... i have a similiar clunk in mine and i have the awd..... i always chalked it up to some play in the transfer case and joints....

Its 4WD

 

[KPT]

Originally posted by 97BlackX5.0
do you have a v6 or v8.... if you have the 8 you dont have hubs

Engine doesn't matter. All Gen 2's hubs are permanently engaged.

Check the fluid level in the diff. Its not uncommon for the seals to leak, I've had to replace my pinion seal and one of the halfshaft seals.


There is also a thread on a mod that will give you 2WD. Search for it.