02 Envoy front Axle problems.

[dksob81]

A buddy has an 02 GMC Envoy and is having some issues with the 4WD. When you put it in AWD (and maybe all other 4x4 modes) the front axles just locks up (stops spinning) and if it wasn't for all the snow you would have probably been through the window.
Any Ideas?

[dorman68]

Check your right front axle housing, the bearings and parts in there are only lubricated by grease, the grease after awhile tends to dry up.

[intimadatorsquizz]

Those units do dry up, but also the shift fork breaks because of it and also the bearings go bad after the grease dries up. Let me know what you find out broke. The company I work for is looking into making these parts available to the aftermarket so I'd like to get your old parts from you. Send me a email to jsquicci@dormanproducts.com for any other info.

[dksob81]

Well I haven't gotten a chance to tear it apart, looks like tomorow I will be doing the job - found a used unit for $300.

I'm curious, if the grease in the axles dried up and locked the bearings up wouldn't this problem exist all the times, not just in 4WD.

[intimadatorsquizz]

the bearing may have finally blown apart the last time you put it in 4WD. I have a few bad ones here now and they're not pretty inside especially when the bearing blow apart. Good Luck and Let me know how you make out and if I can get the old parts from you.

[dksob81]

UPDATE!
I finished replacing the differential early Christmas morning, the problem was deffinately the differential the Pinion Bearings were completely seized.
He said he had an oil leak a few months ago from the driverside axle seal and replaced it, I'm thinking they never refilled the differential, it was bone dry, although he said they it.