No 4x4 !!!!

[rino351]

Whenever I lock my hubs and engage 4x4, there is a loud grinding noise. This makes me afraid to use my 4x4 because I don't want to make it worse.
My dad said it could be the knuckle. I am not good with axles and all that jazz, so any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Ryan

 

[410Fortune]

where does the grinding noise come from? The front end? the transfer case? near thewheel?

You might want to check the fluid level in the front differential to start with.
Most times the best place to start is with a good hands on visual inspection of the whole front end....

 

[rino351]

The grinding is coming from the passenger side wheel well area. I will check the fluid today.

 

[410Fortune]

Its possible it could be the hub itself, could be a u joint, could be the slip yoke where the axleshafts meet, it could be a lot of things. You can jack up the front of the truck and turn everything by hand. Of course I assume you know how to safely jack up a truck.

You can lock and unlock hubs and the T case, and check and ensure everything is turning and locking the way it is supossed to...

 

[DeRocha]

410Fortune is on the money. The U-joints at the wheels tend to get frozen over time. The lube dries up, moistures enters and turns the needle bearings into a rusted mess. Turn the wheel will be a chore and place alot of stress on joint and spindle bearing.