Whining noise??

[Keeter]

I am getting a whining noise when I drive my 97 4WD. It sounds like it is tire noise but happens while I am on a dirt road too so I know it isn't that. I know it is pretty vague but I can't tell where it is coming from. Also, if I am pulling something and the tire slips it makes a clunk pretty loud like it is trying to engage the rear AWD. It doesn't have this problem in the snow, only in the dirt. Any ideas? Thanks.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Noise probably bearing or seal related up front. Try jacking the front end, spinning the wheels and see if you hear it. Also, check to make sure your calipers aren't sticking...

As for the clunk... I'm assuming you have it in 4-auto and your rears are slipping. The clunk would probably be your t/f case enaging to send power to the front. If it is a harsh application, it could be your GEM needs to be reprogrammed. Also, may want to check your t/f case fluid level.

 

[Keeter]

Thanks Lynch. Do you think the transfer case fluid level could be the problem for both of these? Possibly? Hopefully?

 

[Nonoy]

Somebody posted the same whining noise problem before and it was something about the "pinion" in the transfer case that was causing the whining noise. Try searching for that forum. Good luck!