Hey guys, on my dads 2000 500 auto 4x4 when he goes over 8 mph (in four wheel drive) the front end makes a noise like a car engine knocking. He took it to the dealer and they just said not to drive over 8 mph in 4x4... Any idea what it could be and how to fix it? Thanks,

 

Patient: Hey, Doc... when i move my arm like "this" it hurts!
Doctor: Don't move your arm like "that"... That'll be fifty dollars...

I'm afraid I can't help on the noise except to say that aint right... and you have a quack for a dealer. How's the fluid in the pumpkin?

 

Catterman,

I believe I would be looking for a different dealer. For me a fix of "don't do that anymore" is an act of sheer stupidity on the dealers part. They more than likely don't want to mess with it.

I would start by checking the fluid level and color in front diff. If he has had any water in there at all and it has gotten below freezing outside he may have broken something in the diff. There are numerous splines on the ends of the axles that could be broke or worn along with bushings. If he is mechanically inclined at all he can drain the front diff and pull both front axles and inspect the splines for wear. Won't cost anything but the time to check and the cost of the fluid in the diff.

Lots of things it could be in the diff or axle: pinion gears, worn axles, front axle serration, bad CV jount (one ot two), bad bearings. I believe (someone correct me if I am wrong) the noise would be coming from the front diff itself if it was the first 3. the CV joints on the fourth, and possibly the wheels and the diff if the bearings are bad (which would be easy to notice and check).

Then again a "good" dealer would test drive it and should be able to give you a better idea of the problem and a fix than the first dealer he took it to.

My front diff whines a little but only when I hit about 25mph in 4-Hi.
Hope this helps, and good luck.
SJ

 

Catterman,

Sorry, I forgot what should have been on the top of the list as well. Check the shift linkage. If its bent or worn it may not be engaging the front diff all the way.

SJ

 

MBullism, I was thinking the same thing. It is at least good for a laugh...

Swampy, I am heading back to Minnesota to visit my family this evening and will try to check it out. Thanks for the info!

 

My initial feeling is that like said above is that the 4x4 shifter is between 2wd and 4wd. I'd for sure check that out first, it'll be the easiest to look at too.