98 GC Transfer Case issues

Hello, this is my first post. I just bought a '98 GC and it has a problem with the 4WD (I think). It has the Selec-Trac system, and works fine in 2WD. I took it to a big dirt parking lot and I shifted it into 4WD to check it out. Works fine in a straight line, but hops and binds when turning. I was under the impression that these could be driven in 4WD all the time if you wanted to, even on pavement (not that I want to). I thought this one had a 242 transfer case with no VC in it. If so, what allows the front and rear shafts to rotate at different rpm's when cornering? In other words, what's binding when I turn?

Just to clarify, it does this in BOTH full-time and part-time, as if there is no difference at all between them. I just need some guidance, I guess.

Thanks for any responses I get.

In part time mode, the 242s output shafts are locked together. In part time, they are allowed to spin at different speeds via a differencial gear. You may be having issues with your front axle differencial rather than the transfer case.

also, check the TC fluid level.

Thanks for the responses.

The TC fluid level is good.

If the front axle differential were binding, wouldn't it also bind in 2WD? If the 242 has a differential inside that allows front and rear shafts to spin at different rates, that may be the culprit, I'm thinking. Anybody have any experience with this?

Thanks again

the differential has a brass spacer in it. it's not replaceable. If it's worn to much it could be causing your problem. differentials run about 250 from a dealer and about 200 to replace if you can find someone to do it without charging for a complete rebuild. good luck.

Hello, this is my first post. I just bought a '98 GC and it has a problem with the 4WD (I think). It has the Selec-Trac system, and works fine in 2WD. I took it to a big dirt parking lot and I shifted it into 4WD to check it out. Works fine in a straight line, but hops and binds when turning. I was under the impression that these could be driven in 4WD all the time if you wanted to, even on pavement (not that I want to). I thought this one had a 242 transfer case with no VC in it. If so, what allows the front and rear shafts to rotate at different rpm's when cornering? In other words, what's binding when I turn?

Just to clarify, it does this in BOTH full-time and part-time, as if there is no difference at all between them. I just need some guidance, I guess.

Thanks for any responses I get.

I had the same problem with mine and the problem was it wasn't shifting into fulltime 4wd but was instead staying locked up in part time 4wd even though it showed it was in full time on the vehicle information center.
The problem was it was binding and not making the shift. What I had to do was shift it into 4 low and back into 2wd and than back to full time.