H2: I have a transmission problem in that everything seems to work fine in 4Hi but when I shift to 4Hi lock or 4lo lock I get a bad clunking sound from the front which seems worse in corners. When i get this it then seems reluctant to move out of lock. And i have to fiddle quite a bit to get it back to 4Hi.When in neutral the lights work as they should and the transfer box seems to make the right noises. Anyone any ideas?

 

sounds more like a transfer case or front diff issue than a transmission issue. have you checked your diff and transfer case oils?

 

Thanks, yes I checked oil levels in front diff and transfer box as I did suspect these but they are all OK.

My thinking is that if everything works in 4Hi why would the diff act differently in 4lock

 

is the transfer case actuator motor functioning properly? it would be mounted externally on the transfer case.

 

Yes it seems to be. I took it off to check and also have no problem going into the various modes and you can hear the normal "clunk" when changing from Hi to Lo. When I hold the rear prop and try to move the front prop there is about half an inch of movement, not sure if thats normal with a chain? The front right axle has a good bit of movement in it but again not sure if thats normal as I would expect some movement in the front diff.

 

are you locking on pavement or dirt? if on pavement its a known issue to make noises and have issue unlocking / binding. lock mode is for loose ground.

 

Some loose ground initially, I did test it on pavement when I went home but only for one wheel rotation. Problem happens on loose ground as well, even tried in in some mud as well just to be sure.

I have found others who have had similar problems and they have had various causes, front diff, CV joints and transfer case bearings. I have checked what I can on CVs and diff and nothing seems terrible but a little loose. Transfer case not much to check without stripping it down which I dont want to do unless I am sure there is a problem.

 

Though I would update you. I found the problem, turns out to be a badly worn transfer chain that slips when in lock. Have a new one on order but quite a bit of work for me. thanks.

 

If the chain is bad enough to jump teeth you think bearings and pump are still good? Does it have plastic tips on the shift fork? I have never had that model TC apart yet.