Front End Noise...

[xMike87x]

Hey all, Ive done some lookin around on here and have had trouble findin my answer. When Im off road ive been hearing a "wratchet-ing" noise comin from my front end. Also only when the wheels are turned and my tires start slipping. It reminds me of the sound that came from my 1st gen when the hubs went bad.

I thought the 2nd didnt have locking hubs although im still in the learning process with it. This is on a 96 Eddie with a v8 awd. Any help on where to start looking is greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Mike

 

[CJBart]

Hello Mike-

I hear the same thing with my '98 AWD Limited. I replaced the hub thinking for sure it was the hub, negative. I am still looking. My ratcheting noise is at low speeds, <5 mph or so, maybe I just can't hear it with increase in speeds due to normal road noise. I have had the truck up on all fours, rotating things, nothing. I am starting to wonder if it has something to do with the viscus cupling unit.

Craig.

 

[xMike87x]

That thought had crossed my mind too since ive read on here about that wearin out. What confuses me though is it only makes the noise when my tires are slipping. Ive never heard it on the street (yet...).

Mike

 

[CJBart]

Hello Mike-

As it turns out, my ratcheting noise is coming from the transfer case.

I put the truck up on all 4's and had my wife put in and out of gear. My low rotational noise is coming either from the tail of the transmission or from the transfer case. Sounds more like the transfer case (BW 4404). This would sort make sense from a noise location perspective, since it sounds like its coming from the side you are sitting on, drivers or passengers.

Craig.

 

[xMike87x]

If it turns out to be my transfer case that would actually be a relief. 4406 swap is in my future plans for my ex. Unfortunately i dont have the time or xtra money for this right now :/

Mike