Issues with my 2000 Bravada

[justinb10]

As many of you have posted in previous threads, I also have a Bravada that is stuck in the 4 wheel drive mode. I ordered the AutoTrac II fluid from the dealer (they did not have it in stock) and plan to change that out when I get the fluid. Is there any new tricks that any one has done to get it fixed?

I have been driving the Bravada in AWD for about 3 months now, other than the horrible gas mileage, can this damage the vehicle more?

Also, I am noticing a "thud" coming from somewhere behind the steering wheel column or in that general vicinity whenever I go over bumps. It's a rattling type noise. Any ideas??

[Chris Stewart]

Removing the front driveshaft will relieve the strain you're putting on your differentials, transfercase and driveshafts until you get the transfercase fluid changed.
I'd hate to know how much damage to expect from 3 months of driving normal road conditions in AWD.
It's likely the noise you're hearing is the front differential getting against the snubber...a bracket with a rubber biscuit to keep the differentail from twisting too much under off-road conditions.

[justinb10]

Asked a mechanic friend today about driving it in AWD full time on dry roads, he said the worst that could happen is the gas mileage, so...other than that, he said that nothing major would happen. The tires would wear faster as well.

[matt_o_70]

on the noise . Mine has alot of noise over bumps and It is coming from the door pin bushings that very common part to fail.

The next time you hear your noise, find a spot that you can dupicte it and then try opening your doors if the door pin bushings are bad the noise will go away once you open the door.
read the how to section - it has a door pin article that covers this.

the hood pins and bushings are also a common source of noise. I believe there is a how to about those also.

My 2000 AWd was dragging and I did the fluid changes and it helped but did not go away completey until I drove it with the AWD fuse removed for a few days. I believe that the clutches and plates tend to stick and my take some work to get freed. do not expect miracles from one fluid change - just my .02.