4wd grind

JeepJunky33 · **Posted:** Fri Jan 25, 2013 7:52 pm

Ok friends here is my issue I need help diagnosing. I have an idea but would like to hear all of your opinions before I weigh in.

Jeep:
2003 KJ Renegade
5 speed manual
138,000 miles
Part time 4wd

I have not driven my jeep in about 3 months (regularly)
It was the first snow of the season today so I took her out.

I put her into 4wd and I heard a terrible grinding noise when I start to drive. It is, of course not there when I am stopped but as soon as I start to drive it sound like birty ball bearings rolling against one another. It only gets louder as I accelerate.

It is obviously only in my front drivetrain (I think)

Your assistance would be very helpful.
Thoughts?

tommudd · **Posted:** Fri Jan 25, 2013 11:03 pm

and you've already checked the rear boot on the front driveshaft I assume
Also does it sound like possibly the throw out bearing? Difference in sound with clutch in or out??

JeepJunky33 · **Posted:** Sat Jan 26, 2013 5:35 am

Tom,
I haven't checked anything yet, haven't had a chance. I don't think it's the throw out bearing as it only makes a sound in part time 4wd and not in rear wheel only. My first thought was the rear cv joint on the front drive shaft ( I think I have the correct name at least) the issue is idk what to look for in terms of good or bad. If it is bad and I drive with it, it is going to freeze up? Can I grease it? Is replacing it the only answer and how difficult is it to replace in the street?

What I'm thinking..
http://www.jeep4x4center.com/cv-joint-r ... 94rrk.html

tommudd · **Posted:** Sat Jan 26, 2013 8:31 am

Just look up at the rear of the front driveshaft, you'll either see the boot is intact and alright or boot is either partly or totally gone
To repair just pull it out, pretty easy fix.
Yes a kit like that one but theirs is way too much
Driveshaftparts Part number ME807 65 plus shipping

JeepJunky33 · **Posted:** Mon Jan 28, 2013 10:44 am

This is a much better price. I took a look at the joint (front drive shaft at the transfercase) and the boot is gone I can see the bearings. I am going top assume that sand and salt got in the grease and joint and wrecked the bearing. This replacement part will hopefully do the trick.

Question for you. Do I have to remove the whole shaft to replace the joint or can I just disconnect it and do it all under the car.

Ok:
I just ordered the part. lets hope its nice out one day so I can fix it.

tommudd · **Posted:** Mon Jan 28, 2013 10:53 am

Way easier to remove it, I mean it not hard , or that many bolts to remove ( 6 per end )
after removal, pop the end cap off, remove the snap ring, pull the head off, install new parts including the snap ring, don't forget to fill with grease ( included with the kit) attach the cap and back in it goes

JeepJunky33 · **Posted:** Mon Jan 28, 2013 11:50 am

Tom,
You make it sound so easy. Cant wait to mess it up hahaha. I'll let you know how it goes.
They are fast I already got a UPS tracking numbers.

JeepJunky33 · **Posted:** Thu Jan 31, 2013 12:36 pm

I just got the joint in the mail. Cant wait for a nice to day to install it.,. I find it interesting that it uses allen key bolts instead of the OEM style. Any idea why?

tommudd · **Posted:** Thu Jan 31, 2013 1:16 pm

Not sure why??
I always use the stock bolts though and never had a issue
I need to find a project to use up about 6-8 sets of those allen head bolts soon

JeepJunky33 · **Posted:** Fri Feb 01, 2013 11:53 am

hahaha good call. I think Ill stick with the stock bolts as long as they are in good shape. Hopefully this weekend I can get it done if its nice enough out.

4wd grind

Who is online