Rear end locking up on 4wd ranger manual 5 speed

[dikes247]

About a week ago i started noticing what felt like braking when in first or second gear at low speeds. I thought it was my e brake as i do have a stretched cable and have had trouble releasing it before but even when i haven't used my e brake at all it seems to be getting worse. Its always after I make a quick stop at the grocery store or ect that after i push in the clutch to shift from 1st to second it locks up. I can get it going again with some heavy clutch work but it still will feel restricted to roll free. Is this a brake issue or differential? keep in mind i do live in the rocky mountains so its not exactly warm right now.

 

[Uncle Gump]

My money is on brakes...

Time to pull the drums and see what's going on in there.

Maybe even a leaky axle seal.

 

[adsm08]

I'd start by jacking up the rear and seeing if you can spin the wheels freely. Trans in neutral of course.

If you can't spin one of the wheels easily pull it off and check the brakes, there is probably a broken spring or something.

 

[dikes247]

Unfortunately I don't have the tools at home but ill give it a shot at work tomorrow and see what i can find. Thanks for the help!