Hey, I'm having some issues with what I believe is the transfer case and was wondering if anyone had some suggestions that wouldn't require a rebuild. It works fine everytime in 4 lo, but in 2wd/4hi it will sound like its just grinding gears in reverse and not move. Put it in drive and it will go, but shifts harsh and acts like its going into/out of gear. If I move the gear selector around from 2wd to 4lo a few times it will line everything up and drive normal in reverse and drive for a short distance, but by the time I get around the block it starts acting up again.
Its a 2000 durango with the nv231 tc.

 

if you have the mechanical linkage to shift the t-case range (a lever or handle in the floor) then i would crawl underneath and look for any play in the linkage, it almost sounds like the arm is loose at one (or both) ends and is allowing the case to no be fully in the gear that the handle indicates, 4 lo is at one extreme end of the shift range which could be far enough to stay locked in even with that little bit of play

 

Will try tightening that down some. Also, do they still make the original grommet that holds the arm to the transfer case? The original wore out, and I replaced it with one from the hardware store about 6 mos ago after calling around to all the dealers around here and being told that it was no longer available. They said they redesigned they way the linkage hooks up to the TC, and I would need to replace the entire deal. The one thats in there is softer and does also afford some play.

 

a dealer SHOULD either have or be able to get the original grommet (an equivalent replacement of course) but check with the local auto stores and see what they say

 

So you also believe its just vibrating out of position once its in gear in high range? Thats really my main concern, as when the grommet wore out the arm popped out. IIRC I just shifted it manually from underneath and drove it home a mile or two without a problem.

 

it sounds to me like the arm isnt pushing the tcase all the way into gear allowing to vibrate out as you hit bumps, try taking the arm off and putting it in 2wd by hand and see if it still does it, if not you have your answer

 

Yea, it will still only go 1/2 mile or so before it starts acting up. And yes, it does act like its not fully engaged once it starts to act up. For the first 1/2 mile or so it drives great, then I have to stop and fiddle with it again for it to drive normal.
Any other possible easy fixes before it comes out?

 

unfortunately that is my only thought on the issue maybe hydra or duranged408 will have other ideas

 

What I would do is this:

It sounds like your shifting linkage is out of adjustment and or shifted. Check the transmission mount and/or others. Then reach up and loosen the adjuster and pull it forward (towards the cab) 1/4 inch and tighten. Then get into the truck and place the transmission in neutral with the motor off and switch the transfer case to 2WD (which should be forward, if back then reverse instructions) and place in park and restart and try that.

 

Appreciate the input, but so far no luck.