Transfer Case Growl or Grinding Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Isuzu i-370, 2007 GMC Canyon, and 2007 Chevrolet Colorado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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 4 wheel drive mode. Review the Symptoms - Transfer Case and perform the necessary inspections.
High/low planetary carrier assembly	Inspect the high/low planetary carrier pinion gears for the following conditions: Chipped, bent or deformed teeth Pinion gear bushings worn Pinion gear thrust washers missing Seized or binding pinion 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 shaft	Inspect the input shaft teeth for excessive wear or damage. Refer to Cleaning and Inspection . Replace the input shaft, if faulty. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Input shaft thrust bearing	Inspect for a faulty input shaft thrust bearing. Inspect the thrust bearing surfaces for galling. Replace the thrust bearing, 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 annulus gear, if faulty. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .