Clunk/vibration at speed in 4x4

[Jan Kohl]

2011 Sport 4x4 with 4.0l & 5 speed manual

While in 4x4 on the highway, there is an occasional bang/thump at speed (varies, could happen in a mile or two, or in a half mile, or in 2-3 miles). Occurs only in 4x4, driving straight down the road, only started recently. Relatively new tires, truck has 61k on the clock and is well-maintained.

Thanks!

Jan Kohl

 

[adsm08]

Why are you in 4x4 on the highway?

 

[Kealel]

Younshould not use the 4×4 on regular roads... please tell me you are using it in snow.

 

[Jan Kohl]

So I take it nobody knows?

 

[Kealel]

So I take it nobody knows?

Using 4×4 on dry solid road pretty much kills your drive train (right spelling?) And it should Only be used offroad, or onroad in snow/ice.

 

[adsm08]

So I take it nobody knows?

You didn't answer the questions about if you are using the system correctly, or abusing it and breaking parts before we start guessing at what is broken.

Noises are almost 100% impossible to diagnose without the vehicle in front of you unless it is a really common issue.

Given the information I actually have I would guess you are binding up the drive line so badly that it is skipping, which is bad for u-joints, tires, the drive chain in the transfer case.... Need I go on?

 

[Jan Kohl]

The only time I put it in 4x4 is if I'm hauling a trailer around my property, or snow or heavy rain on the road. I noticed it the other day when I was driving in heavy rain. I don't abuse the vehicle off-road, it is a work truck for my farm. However, I am the 2nd owner to this truck, so I have no idea what they may have done.

 

[adsm08]

Heavy rain is not cause for 4x4 on a road surface. Wet roads do not produce the potential needed for slippage that is required for safe use of 4x4.

I have not seen your property, but even most off-road conditions that have all 4 wheels on the ground don't warrant 4x4. Only muddy or slippery terrain really.

Its impossible to be sure without observing the symptom for myself, but it seems to me that there is likely something stretched or worn out in the transfer case or front drive line due to improper use.