Front Differential - Popping/Clunking Noise: Overview
File In Section: 04 Driveline AxleBulletin No.: 01-04-19-003
Date: April, 2001
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Harsh Clunk Noise From Front Axle While in 4WD and During Turning Maneuvers (Replace Front Differential Case, Actuator and Side Bearings)
Models:
1999 Chevrolet Tracker with Four-Wheel Drive
Condition
Some customers may comment on a harsh clunk or popping noise coming from the front axle. This condition is most apparent while driving in 4WD at low speeds on loose traction surfaces such as gravel or snow and turning right or left.
Cause
Inside the front differential case, the teeth of the free wheel axle hub may jump a tooth resulting in the noise.
Correction
A modification was made to the design of the front differential case, which should reduce the likelihood of the free wheel hub teeth from jumping.
Replace the front axle differential case, actuator and side bearings using the service procedure and part numbers as shown.
Important:
With the new design differential case, the teeth may still jump under extreme torque load conditions, such as making tight turn maneuvers in 4WD on hard dry surfaces resulting in a similar noise. This noise is now considered to be a normal vehicle operating characteristic. Driving on high traction surfaces in 4WD is not necessary and contributes to excessive torque load on the front axle. Customers should be advised to shift into 2WD when driving on such surfaces.
Parts Information
Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use the table as shown.
DISCLAIMER