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transfer case or actuator?

06Z71guy

SM 2023
SM 2022
Full Member
Joined
Jan 29, 2022
Messages
67
Soon after I bought my 2006 Z71 (1500), I took it to my local (very reliable) shop to be checked out for a few things, one being a bit of a "whine" noise when accelerated. He told be my TC -(transfer case) had no oil and there were metal shavings in it. I bought a rebuilt one with a good warranty. After installation there is now a very different "wobble" noise when I accelerate in 2WD and an even more pronounced noise of a similar nature, only a "deeper" tone in 4wd, and a bit of a vibration. My mechanic says he thinks its a bad TC (after looking at a dozen other possible things such as bearings, hubs, etc)... I called the TC company and they were surprised as this is all they do, specifically...with this model TC. They have less than a 1 percent return rate, and thought, perhaps my mechanic induced an issue when they installed the new one. Additionally, I was told the actuator that allows the 2 or 4wd function on the TC could also be bad. When the truck is on the lift and its run through both 2WD and 4WD there's no noise. Its only on the ground with a load on the system. The TC Company did offer to send me another one, as long as I pay for shipping. And, of course, I'll have to pay for the labor to replace. Any other thoughts to see if I can better trouble shoot and avoid going down the wrong path? Would/Could the transmission be the issue? Any help is appreciated.
 
Front differential?

The front diff in my AWD EXT wore out twice in the time I have owned the truck.

Symptoms were mainly a growling noise from the front area of the truck.

Also, how are the front drive shaft u-joints?

Or all of them, for that matter.

CV-axles?
 
I think my shop mechanics looked at almost everything that rotates up front, and came up with nothing. Also, before the front TC replacement, there was no noticeable noise like what Im experiencing now. So, I would say although possible, not likely. I just watched a video on how to replace the encoder motor. If thats bad, the position of the drive shaft could be off a bit. Can the truck be driven with the front drive shaft removed? That would possible help troubleshoot?
 
Yes that should work.
Also I bought cheap encoder on amazon and it had a damaged rubber grommet where the wires enter the encoder. Returned it for refund and bought a real one. Much nicer.
I haven't replaced it yet as the original is working ok. Replaced the front cv axles and hubs
 
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