weird axle noise

[twistedtat]

Last week after a big rain storm I noticed that my front end was making a heavy grinding sound like tires rubbing the fender well. It only happens at low speed, and also sometimes when I initially take off, then the power band kicks in and it quits. My 4-high,4-low lights have been coming on and off since winter, and someone told me it may be the auto 4x4 switch malfunctioning.I have an 1997 XLT, 4x4, 6-cyl and any help is stopping me from pulling my hair out. thanks guys

 

[Opera House]

My 97 had this problem when I bought it used. Decided to drain the transfer case and put new fluid in as part general maintenance. Only a few ounces drained out. Refilled transfer case with new fluid and the lights and low speed funkiness went away. Rear seal had a slight leak. I just top it off every year. No problems for four years. This is a wet clutch and when fluid id low the plates drag.

 

[jlsparky7]

^ do what he did. Transfer case flush for sure. Inspect your breather hose too. There is a transfer case flush how to video in the link in my signature.