Hey all,

I just wnated to put in info on a problem I had should, anyone else have same in future. I just bought "new" 2000 SE7 with 133k miles, ACE, absoluetley perfect condition. When testing I heard a minor whirring noise, with slight vibaration which after looking at black foaming power steering fluid I chalked up to fluid, and probably failing ps pump, as it seemed to increase when going into a turn.

Later, I tried listen from below, under and inside car but it was impossible to locate. I flushed power steering, flushed ACE, changed tranny, topped off axles and transfer case, greased all u-joints (front alreadychanged), etc. hoping to "flush out: problem.

Nothing.

After consultation with Disco Mike, I took off serpentine belt and revved car--noise still there, which discounted any belt driven areas. So, I got a "stethoscape" and crawled under the car wile daughter revved, HOPING she didn't accidently put into drive. (I have a big head.)

Well, I pretty much isolated the sound and vibration to be coming from the transfer case. So, I gues Ill be needing a new one sometime. I am going to empty and refill with Lucas 85-140 just in case I can get more mileage.

I notice the transfer cases for DII are different, but does anyone know if the 99 DI already had the new transfer case? My local yard has two DI '99's sitting in field with cases.

Any thoughts? Suggestions? Ideas how to save case?

 

Make sure to check the magnetic drain plug, you will have some magnetic mud on it, which is normal, but look for checks of metal or shinning bearing material.
If it is the case, start looking for a new one today cause yours will blow sooner then later and no since adding a big tow bill to the cost.