T-Case Binding?

89 Cherokee w/NP231 runs fine in 4H/L as long as I don't turn. Some sort of binding noise (whatever that is) starts. What should I check?
Fluid level okay.

Thanks
Russell

[xjy173]

What you may be describing is called wind up. There isn't much wind up in a 4wd driveline when the vehicle is driving straight. With a part time transfer case, like the NP 231, there is no center differential in the case to allow for the different axle rotation speeds when the vehicle is turning and the Jeep will make noise and "buck " thru the turn, especially in high traction situations, as in driving on dry pavement. You shouldn't use the 4wd with a part time case in those situations, as you can damage it.

Another possibe explanation is that the front axle differential is defective. I think that this is not the case here, though.

[Pigpen]

This condition usually occurs when the front universal joints on the axel(not the driveshaft) become defective. The joint maybe worn out and begin to stick in certain positions. It would be more noticable in 4wdrive. Put the jeep on jack stands all around, put in 4 high or low and spin the front tires left then right and have an assistant turn the steering wheel back and forth. If the joint is bad(since it is right behind the tire) you will notice that the tires may be binding up or trying to move the steering wheel on their own.
If this is the case you must remove the tire and hub to draw out the axel and replace the joint (cheap part, lots of labor)

Thanks....lets say I ruined it, with 116,000 miles would a new transmission and full time capable T-case be cost effective or can I get
a T-case that's full time capable and not change my tranny? I really don't like this part time stuff. If I want 4 wheel drive I don't want
worry about whether or not my traction is going mess my T-case up. Maybe I'm dreaming.

[xjy173]

A NP or NV 242 transfer case(which Jeep calls Select Trac) will bolt to the existing transmission. You will have to change the drive shafts (both front and rear) to the Select Trac type, though. Good Luck!!