Ok, I'd like a quick and dirty answer. I think my viscous coupler (NP249) is crapping out.

When I roll out of my driveway (backwards in N) the truck rolls fine straight, but as soon as I turn the steering wheel it seems to slow down very quickly like I've just put on the brakes. I usually have to put it in reverse to get the rest of the way into the street.

I also get the feeling that its quite a bit of work for the engine to pull the truck through low-speed tight corners, though I have no tire chirping or choppy ride during the turns. Everything runs fine on the highway, and driveline noise is there but not loud or scary.

Is my Coupler not long for this world or should I just try replacing the diff and TC fluids first? I'd like to know so I can have the $400 ready to purchase a replacement if necessary.

Thanks.
Andy

 

I remember going through this... try pulling the front drive shaft out and driving it around like normal that way and see if you still feel these problems. And if you decide to try this REMEMBER TO SET YOUR E-BRAKE WHEN YOU PARK!!!!!! Pulling the front drive shaft will make it roll very slowly when in park!! I came out at the end of the day at work a few times when I did this and found my jeep in the middle of the parking lot lol

 

if it still does it with the drive shaft pulled it is one of the cv style axle shafts on the front. Has almost the same symptons.

 

If you do need a new tc, dont get another 249. Do the 231/242 swap. You will be much happier.