why does my front driver wheel break free under pressure

[metalmacguyver]

i am thinking stripped splines. if this is the case then new spiders and an inner shaft are needed.

 

[grnrngr]

Let us know what you find...I'm thinking I have a similar issue with my "90 Ranger...when I swapped out the clutch, I was spinning the wheels like that and it seemed I heard a crack...now it makes no noise going forward, but in reverse makes a "clicking" noise like the gears are not lining up correctly and seems to get worse the farther you go in reverse. Fortunately for me, I don't back up much...

 

[gw33gp]

Does the front differential have a locker? I have seen a locker do something similar to your explanation.

 

[grnrngr]

Far as I know it's original stock, with manual hubs...now can you tell if it's a locker?

 

[gw33gp]

I would start out by getting both front tires off of the ground and have the transfer case in 2WD with hubs locked. Rotate one wheel by hand and see what direction the other wheel is rotating. If they rotate in the same direction, you most likely have a locker or a limited slip front differential. If they rotate in opposite directions, you most likely have an open differential or a worn out limited slip. This is not an absolute test but is a good indicator.