Expert: Carl Brandt - 12/15/2005

Question
Thank you Carl!  I just had a transmission place look at it. They said it's coming from the transfer case AND they said it was full of metal?? but wouldn't give me an idea as to what that means unless they take the whole thing apart.  This is the 2nd transfer case that's in this jeep.
I guess I'm just going to just list it for sale for what ever price I can get for it the way it is.  I'm also going to try to not drive it, don't want to make it any worse.  Thank you for answering all of my questions, It's much appreciated!
Have a good day!

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Followup To
Question -
Hi,
I have a '94 Jeep Grand Cherokee that's 4wd all time. 148K on vehicle, engine approx. 82K.  Recently, it started making this loud whining noise coming from the front end. (a fairly high pitch noise) The more I drive the worse it gets & the faster I go the louder it gets. I'm getting ready to sell it but I'm wondering if I'm making it worse as I continue to drive it.  A mechanic mentioned that it may be my front differential - he didn't know much about them so couldn't provide me with details.  Do you have any ideas on what it could be?  Could it be low on fluid? Is it maybe not the differential?  
If it's possibly an easy/low cost fix, I would like to get it done before I sell it.
Any thoughts you may have are greatly appreciated!
Thank you!

Answer -
Emily,

It sounds like the front differential, axle, or wheel bearings.  The mechanic who looked at it should have checked the oil in the front differential for you, as this is quite easily done.  

These repairs can be fairly costly depending on which component is failing.  I would talk to another mechanic, and have them check the fluid levels in the transmission, transfer case, and both front and rear differentials.  You may get lucky, and fresh oil just might cure the problem.  Normally when a bearing, or bushing starts squealing they are dry and starting to get hot.  Try to get it into a shop as soon as possible.

Carl

Answer
Emily,

Sorry to hear that the damage was so bad.  You might check around, and see if you can find someone who could replace the transfer case with a used one.  Many times, you can find used replacement parts from a vehicle with low mileage that has been totaled.  If you have and wrecking yards in your area, you might call them and see what a replacement unit would cost.

This type of damage is unusual, unless you have been running in 4-wheel drive on hard, or paved surfaces.

Carl