quadtrac blues

Hi guys, Well, 95 JGC, 6 cyl, quadtrac. Last time I was here I had complaints about a grinding noise coming from front diff. took it to the mech. the diff fluid was loaded with metal filings. replaced front axle with junker. Drove fine for about 3-4 weeks. Diff is shot again. I had the classic symptoms of VC problems, skipping tires when turning, etc. Do you fellas think the VC ruined the diff? if I replace both the axle (dammit) and the transfer case, do you think this will do it? is it worth it? and finally is this a job I could do? I've done minor repairs (replaced calipers rotors etc) and I'm not timid about trying repairs...but if its outta my league..... Anyway, thanks for any adivce. Look forward to hearing from you experts.

Thank you

Ok, I found on another forum a guide to replacing the VC itself, instead of the whole Transfer case. It looks pretty direct. is it possible that the front diff going out is an indicator of not only the VC croakin' but something else in the TC?

Yes you can replace the VC with out removing the whole case...

nothing else in the TC should affect the diffs and I don't think even the VC should take out the diff unless maybe it locks up all together. The VC is more likely to wear on the front CV joints on the axles.

Those front axles may have had other problems to begin with.

Replacing the VC is intimidating but if you have the tools...take your time...have the manual....and ask questions sounds like you should be able to do it.

To do the diff (replace the gears and bearings) you will need a press and bearing pullers....

Setting up the gears requires a dial indicator and you will need a shim set and micrometer to choose the right shims for bearing preload, gear pattern, and backlash.

Do a very meticulous clean up of the inside of the housings too.

I'll try to answer your questions when I get on here.

JD

Thanks JD....the VC seems do-able for me. The front Diff...I don't have the tools or the confidence to tackle. I'm puzzled about the diffs though....what could make the gears in the diff grind -up like that? I assumed it had to be the VC...making turns made the thing darn near hop and skip. the repalcement axle seemed to be ok...noise started nery slight and soft at first then worsened gradually....within three weeks it was just horrible grinding.

If the VC is that bad it could be that there is the connection that has been suggested - I haven't seen it before though.

I have a small amount of wheel fight on my 96 quadratrac. I just serviced both the front and rear diffs, replaced the front axles/cv joints and rear wheel bearings.

There is no sign of problem front or back but mine isn't bucking like yours sounds.

Just a thought ... do you still have the old diff? You could take it to a shop you trust and have it redone and then swap it back in. Whole lot easier to do the diff when it is out too.


Ohya I would use synthetic in the diffs as well.

I sure do have the old diff....its still on the jeep tho. I'm gonna get the truck towed in to the mech. So, your best guess is that the 2nd diff was bad as well? if I were to have another axle installed and that one died as well, what could the problem be? Thanks agin for your advice!

If you change out the VC and have new gears and bearings installed in the Diff housing and correctly set up, you should have no problem

Just make sure that the grindings from the first two failures are completely cleaned up. Those might have contributed to the second failure as well.

Service the diffs by changing the oil at least every two years. More often if you off road or tow a trailer and I would use synthetic gear oil.


JD