Wolf427

Hey guys,

A few weeks ago I drove my '96 XJ on pavement in 4H for about 15 minutes by accident(went from snow covered roads to clear roads). When I did this, I noticed a new noise coming from around where my t-case is(NP231). It sounds like a chain being shaken around violently. It was present when I would lightly let off the throttle.
I switched back into 2H, and ever since that night the noise has been present.
It seems to happen around speeds over 70kph, and again, only when I lightly let off the throttle.

I check my u-joints and they all seem to be fine.
I did install 3.5" lift leaf springs and new shocks in the rear, as well as a 1.75" coil spacer in the front.

Any ideas as to what this could be? I am worried that I damaged my transfer case internals.
Let me know if you need any more details. I tried googling it, but nothing similar to my issue has been found/resolved.

Thanks!

sycoglitch

The heat probably stretched the chain. Have you checked if there's still fluid in the Tc

Wolf427

Okay. But I heard the chain isnt under any load in 2wd.
I have not checked the fluid yet. Don't think I have a socket big enough to remove the bolt.

sycoglitch

If the chain is stretched iirc it will make noise. It's constantly spinning.

cruiser54

Check the fluid!!!!

md21722

Probably not a bad idea to remove the front driveshaft while you investigate. If the front driveshaft isn't there, and you're not in 4WD, the chain won't spin.

Wolf427

I removed the front driveshaft, and the noise is still there. I might add that it also sounds like light grinding at lower speeds.

HudsonN

Check your front wheel bearings.

Wolf427

Okay I'll take a look when I get the chance.

cruiser54

And, of course you didn't check the fluid level, right?......................

Wolf427

Alright wheel bearings seem to be fine.

I havn't been able to check it. Its a 30mm bolt. I don't have a 30mm socket, and my channel locks broke recently. I will check the fluid asap.

cruiser54

There's an American equivalent. Channel locks ain't gonna do it.

Wolf427

I don't have any sockets large enough. I will have to purchase one tomorrow. I'll report back when I have checked the fluid.

Wolf427

I checked the fluid level today, it was a little low. I have a tail shaft leak. Topped it up but its still making noise.

Wolf427

Alright so I decided to drain and refill the t-case because whatever was in there was thin/deteriorated. Just filled it with ATF. Took a look at the chain, and its tight still, couldn't budge it much with my finger.

Going to drive it around with the fresh ATF and see if there is a difference in noise.

Edit: okay no change whatsoever. Forgot to mention, no metal filings in the old fluid, and no metal filings sitting on the bottom of the t-case.

Help!