Transfer Case Growl Or Grinding Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 GMC Sierra and 2007 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Transfer Case Growl or Grinding Noise

Cause	Correction
DEFINITION: A faulty internal transfer case component that causes a growl or grinding noise in the transfer case while the vehicle is turning or in a four wheel drive mode. Review the Symptoms - Transfer Case and perform the necessary inspections.
High/low planetary carrier assembly	Inspect the high/low planetary carrier planetary gears for the following conditions: Chipped, bent or deformed teeth Planetary gear bushings worn Planetary gear thrust washers missing Seized or binding planetary gears Refer to Cleaning and Inspection . Replace the high/low planetary carrier assembly if any of the above conditions exist. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Input gear	Inspect the input gear teeth for excessive wear or damage. Refer to Cleaning and Inspection . Replace the input gear if faulty. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Thrust washers	Inspect for missing or damaged thrust washers for the input gear. Inspect the thrust washers for galling. Replace the thrust washers if faulty and the mating component if damaged. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Annulus gear	Inspect the annulus gear teeth for the following conditions: Damage Chipped teeth Excessive wear Metal embedded in the root of the teeth Refer to Cleaning and Inspection . Replace the front case half if the annulus gear is faulty. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .