Transfer Case Thunk?

[Jd0gg919]

So I tried to do a little mudding today and when I engaged the 4lo, I heard it click to lock in but as soon as I put it in drive and stared to go I could feel it slipping and knocking, like it wasn't all the way engaged. I used the 4x4 less than a week before and it worked fine. Are there any easy things to do to try and pinpoint a problem? It's a 1996 4dr XLT.

Thanks
-Justin

 

[IZwack]

Slipping and knocking sounds more like a trans or engine problem (not the transfer case). Maybe you got some dirt/mud/water in the intake? Or maybe some water in the trans?

 

[Jd0gg919]

It doesn't do it unless i'm in 4x4. I should have clarified, the clunk and slip is more or less coming from the front wheels.

 

[IZwack]

Are you engaging 4wd on pavement? Because if you are, then you're destroying your drivetrain.

 

[Jd0gg919]

Nah, only in grass and dirt.

 

[IZwack]

First check the front pinion for any "play" (disconnect the front driveshaft to isolate the pinion from the driveshaft's U-joints).

 

[Jd0gg919]

Alright thanks. I'll work on that tomorrow.

 

[jumpn4jesus]

My 92 xlt does that or something similar as well.

I recently replaced the clutch, and thus had the tranny out.
When I put it in 4x4 it makes popping noises when I try to accelerate. Only in 4x4(only tried lo, but assume it would do it in hi as well) I got stuck trying to go up an embankment and it was just popping, but not moving the front wheels. Kinda loud too. Definitely coming from the front some where.

What should I check? Could U joints be the culprit?

Sorry for hi-jacking by the way. No sense making a new thread if I can get answers here.

Thanks in advance,
Andrew

 

[MrShorty]

Your '96 still has the vacuum center axle disconnect, doesn't it? If it does, is the CAD engaging properly?

For the '92, your problem is likely your hubs, especially if you still have the stock auto hubs.

 

[jumpn4jesus]

That's good to hear. I have a set of extras sitting around. I just need to upgrade to manuals! That will have to wait though.

 

[gijoecam]

So I tried to do a little mudding today and when I engaged the 4lo, I heard it click to lock in but as soon as I put it in drive and stared to go I could feel it slipping and knocking, like it wasn't all the way engaged. I used the 4x4 less than a week before and it worked fine. Are there any easy things to do to try and pinpoint a problem? It's a 1996 4dr XLT.

Thanks
-Justin

A second vote for the center-axle disconnect... Common issue on the 95-96. They did away with that part of the system on the 97s.

-Joe