In the last week or so I've had three strange incidents with drive power loss. These seem to occur a few minutes after driving around. The first time, while driving, there was a "clunk" and then everything was fine.

The next time, a few days later, while driving along, the rpm gauge dropped to zero for ~5 seconds. Pressing the gas pedal had no effect. It didn't stall at all, just felt like it was idling as I rolled along. Then something re-engaged and power came back and all was well for the rest of the trip. The truck sat for ~5 hours, then on the way home, after a few minutes, I got another "clunk" like the first time. Drove fine the rest of the way home.

The only common thing I've noticed is the approximate time it occurs, several minutes after I start driving. No codes or anything and it drives & shifts great otherwise.

Any ideas on where to start troubleshooting?

Thanks!

 

Transfer case going into neutral maybe?

 

Trying to scare me zman? I just searched for "transfer case" and found all kinds of fun. Exploding transfer cases seem to be a regular occurrence around here.

Assuming that's the problem, is this a symptom of impending failure? Or is it treatable?

 

When my tcase exploded it kept trying to lock up 4wd, couldnt drive over 20mph or the front diff would grind because of it trying to lock up.

Im not saying it is tcase but it might be...dont get worried...tccase is easy the change..did it in my driveway with no power tools jacks or lifts...just had ratchet straps and one jack stand and i was able to do it...just gotta have muscle to bench press the tcase back in...the rest is easy

 

Hey Guys, I'm bringing the truck in for an inspection sticker tomorrow. Any suggestions of stuff to have the shop take a look at while it's there?

 

Installing one of these might help the TC if it's not too late already. http://www.drivetrain.com/parts_cata...ase_saver.html

 

OK, I'm thinking this is an electrical issue. The other day I was backing out of a spot, and the truck just completely died, no electrical power at all. I put in park and it started right up. Drove it 150 miles or so with no issues.

A few days later, on the 150mi trip home, the engine cut out for a split second and then was fine again. This causes a good thud when it happens.

I've continued to notice that these things happen within about 5-10 minutes of driving around after it has sat over night. Also it's been pretty wet around here lately, so maybe condensation + some bad electrical connections are part of the problem?

 

Disconnect the battery, and clean/inspect and use die electric grease on every electrical plug you can find. Including the PCM and the plug hidden behind the wheel well plastic cover on the driver side lower wheel well. Also remove the panels from the steering column and inspect the wires. They have a habit of breaking if you use the tilt wheel a lot.