Bad Front-end Binding in AWD???

2mopar_diesels · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:05 pm

I used the AWD mode for the 1st time since buying the CRD. It had been raining for several days, and I liked liked trying out the AWD on rain slick roads. I didn't notice anything until I went to make a tight turn into a parking space. Thats when the KJ came to an abrupt halt. Further application of the throttle, got it going. But not without alot of binding and bucking of the front end. Felt more like it was in 4H lock than AWD. In fact, it really feels like my Cherokee with a front locker than an open diff 4H lock front end. Is this in the t-case or front end? Either way, it is still covered under warranty. Would just like a heads up for the service dept. before I take it in.

greiswig · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:37 pm

The terms used, "Full Time" and "Part Time" are confusing to some folks. Other folks are confused because their T-case doesn't even have a differential, and only allows for "Part Time" mode. It sounds like that's the mode you were in. Which mode did the dash indicator and shift lever indicate you were in?

2mopar_diesels · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:37 pm

I'm not new to this!!!!! Of course it was in 4wd Full Time. Both indicated on the dash light and shift lever.

05infernoCRDL · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:45 pm

2mopar_diesels wrote:

I'm not new to this!!!!! Of course it was in 4wd Full Time. Both indicated on the dash light and shift lever.

i don't think greiswig was saying that you were... just wanted a bit of
clarification cause we are all human and sometimes make mistakes...

now back to the topic... i remember other brand AWD models that had
turning issues cause of the AWD and the condition you explained is one
of them

kdlewis1975 · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:59 pm

Do you think a fluid change would help? The TC takes ~2 quarts ATF+4 as well.

I notice the bind too since I use "full time" during much of the winter here in MI, but this really only near the extreme of the wheel locks and it didn't seem excessive. I believe that the TC splits the power to be 60% to the rear and %40 to the front...I think I read that in the service manual...so that wouldn't necessarily mean it's an open diff and could there still be some binding at the extremes? Would the CV joints being at an extreme angle come into play? Since you haven't really used it much, perhaps there is a bit of break-in for the clutches needed and it will go away...?

Just some thoughts. I did happen to change out my TC fluid a month ago, but I haven't had an occasion to use 4-wheel drive yet. ...Mama Nature here in MI may give us that on Monday...providing I figure out where my oil leak is from.

naturist · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 7:30 pm

I've a 2005 CRD, and use the Full Time (aka AWD) on it a lot, particularly when towing. I have used the Part Time (both hi and lo) a few times, and noted the binding issue only in Part Time. Mine behaves nicely in Full Time, no binding ever.

I have noted other messages here and other KJ forums from folks who have had the issue, and it appears that this may be due to the transfer case not engaging FT properly, but putting it into PT-HI even though the lever was moved correctly and the dash indicator showed FT. You may want to take it to the dealer and tell them to check the linkage for correct action.

DarbyWalters · **Posted:** Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:31 pm

Just because the light goes on does not mean you actually pulled it far enuff thru "Part Time"...but you are not new to this so you would know that of course.

2mopar_diesels · **Posted:** Sat Nov 15, 2008 12:20 am

Yeh, thats what I'm hoping for. Just a simple linkage adjustment. I just wanted to see on here 1st if there were any bad mechanical problems unique to the KJ. Like bad CV's, t-case's, bearings, or any major $$$ item like that. Thanks guys.

Joe Romas · **Posted:** Sat Nov 15, 2008 12:59 pm

2mopar_diesels wrote:

Yeh, thats what I'm hoping for. Just a simple linkage adjustment. I just wanted to see on here 1st if there were any bad mechanical problems unique to the KJ. Like bad CV's, t-case's, bearings, or any major $$$ item like that. Thanks guys.

Mine stays in part time 4 wheel when going from full time 4 wheel to 2 wheel forever unless I leave it in 4 part time for several hundered feet before going to 2 wd. I think the linkage is too flimsey and makes a proper adjustment impossable do to some part of it flexing :cry:

And with only 20k miles I've already changed the fluid using +4 :wink:

danoid · **Posted:** Sat Nov 15, 2008 5:14 pm

Mine binds if I shift it while parked from 2wd to 4 full time then back up. Then the bind releases with such a bad sounding noise as to teach the driver NEVER to do that again.

When shifting the t-case back and forth it often helps to goose the throttle and let off a couple of times to allow the natural (and unfortunate) driveline slop of the KJ help the t-case find it's happy spot.

Bad Front-end Binding in AWD???

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