The problem you are describing could be a broken or missing snap ring
on the rear output of the transfer case. I have heard of the problem on
the Rams so it could happen on dakota. What would be happening is the
mainshaft is allowed to be pushed forward by the driveshaft, this will
result in the sleeve which engages the 4wd contacting the sprocket
which it would slide over in 4wd. The grinding noise would only occur
when there was speed difference between the two parts, spinning the
tires, and the shaft was pushed foward by the drive shaft. Then 4wd
drive may be engaging slightly causing wheel slip to stop then when
wheel slips stops it pops out of 4wd and you hear the loud clang. The
only way to check this is take off the rear prop. When you take the rear
prop of check the rear slip spline to make sure it has been getting oil, if it
dry that could be the problem because you get spline lock. Then take off
the rear most extension of the transfer case. This extension is only held
on by four bolts. Then you will see a roller bearing which should have a
snap ring on the rear sideof it, toward back of truck, in a groove in the
mainshaft. If that snap ring is missing or unseated there is your problem.
Be sure to put the prop shaft back in it original orientation and to check
the t-case oil.
Another possible problem is a misadjusted 4wd shift linkage, which is
allowing the 4wd to start to engage under heavy accel, which flexes the
linkage.
I wouldn't worry about telling your dealer that it only happens at wide
open throttle. When dodge tested the vehicles I am sure they test them
at max GVW and wide open throttle and you can be sure there trucks
didn't make any noise.
Brent Cring
91 V-8 4x4
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Fri Jun 20 2003 - 12:07:24 EDT