Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ radiator

Clacking from drivetrain in 4LO

TRevs

TJ Enthusiast
Original poster
Supporting Member
Joined
Nov 11, 2019
Messages
704
Location
TX & CO
Now that I've been out on a few trails needing 4LO, I've noticed some looseness in the drivetrain manifested by the clacking heard in the videos below. It doesn't seem that much different than other old manual transmission vehicles I've had, but I'd like to get some other opinions.

I only had time to spend a few minutes checking underneath it; the front drive shaft has a modest amount of play which is more than the rear shaft has. The axle U-joints seem tight although I may not have been testing them properly.

Let me know if the videos don't post correctly.

Thanks in advance!
 

Attachments

  • drivetrain rattle 1.mp4
    22.3 MB
  • drivetrain rattle 2.mp4
    23.4 MB
Sounds like the chain slapping against the inside of the transfer case housing. IF you check your transfer case fluid and there are little specs of sparklies then there is a good chance the chain has stretched as Pagrey posted.
A friend of mine had that same problem in Moab and we split the case while in the campground in between cabins and replaced the chain and gears.
 
Thanks for the suggestion; that didn't cross my mind. I haven't touched the transfer case since I got the Jeep last year, but I'll start with that. Off to the service manual!

Apologies for the chrome tube bumpers. I'm planning on replacing them but there's just not much time for the hobby. When I do have time I'm on the trails. Probably this winter I'll have time for some projects.
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ radiator