Transfer Case - Clunk Noise Diagnostics

Classification:
TF02-005

Reference:
ITB02-011

Date:
March 5, 2002

1997 - 2002 QX4 CLUNK NOISE FROM TRANSFER CASE

APPLIED VEHICLES:
1997 - 2002 QX4 (JR50)

SERVICE INFORMATION

If an Applied Vehicle exhibits a clunk noise from the transfer case when:

^ Accelerating or stopping, or

^ Shifting from Reverse through Neutral, into Drive, or: From Drive, through Neutral, into Reverse,

It may not be caused by the transfer case itself. The incident, if it occurs, may be caused by:

^ Excessive friction of the prop shaft u-joint (transfer case end), causing the prop shaft sleeve yoke to stick against the transfer case output shaft.

Please review the following System Information before judging what repairs are needed, if any.

SYSTEM INFORMATION

1. Verify that the noise occurs as described above.

2. If so, inspect the rear prop shaft u-joint (transfer case end) to determine if there is excessive friction of the u-joint (u-joint feels "notchy"). If there is:

Refer to Section PD/Propeller Shaft And Differential Carrier/Propeller Shaft of the appropriate Service Manual for inspection procedures and information.