So I have been trolling on here lately trying to fix an issue. 05 STX 4x4 45000
started with the grinding noise in the left wheel . Looked on here saw the numerous IWE solenoid threads , went to ford and bought one , stopped .....for a while , like 3 days . Went to my local mechanic checked everything out said i needed new wheel hub assembly . He put it on to no avail , so i go to get truck today and am told that the diif fluid was milky . I asked if there was any metal filings in the fluid and he said he wasn't sure but i need to get that diff rebuilt and i would cost thousands 1500-2000 . This is work that he says he can not do and i need to go to dealership or someone who specializes in 4wd .
I am wondering if that vehicle is in 2wd the front driveshaft isn't turning so what would make that noise . I shift to 4wd noise goes away comes back later. Mechanic tested vac and said i was gettin 17ft no drop off.
HELP PLEASE really dont see how its the part that doesn't move.

 

transfer case motor make any noise when they go bad?

 

Chances are that if the grinding noise you are hearing is coming from just one wheel, you will need to replace the actuator on that side. It is a vacuum actuated componant behind the hub. Good luck.

 

1. the white milky fluid in the front diff is normal...strange, but true. It's believed to be the assembly lube gives it that color.
2. You are having a vacuum problem.

what exactly have you replaced?

also, hand over hand check every bit of those vacuum lines. It'll be a PITA, but you might have a rip/tear/hole in the vacuum line for that wheel. maybe even a blockage. the noise you are describing is classic IWE trying to engage due to a lack of vacuum.



transfer case motors just stop working. they don't make any noise other than the clunking noise when shifting to 4x4 and back to 4x2...not related

 

I think you have a vacuum leak. I tested mine just a few weeks ago and got 25in at the vac soleniod. I'm assuming you meant 17in of vacuum. If you got 17 at idle, you'll get less than that running down the road, which could allow the IWE actuators to partially engage causing the grinding.

 

ok so against my better judgement i drove bout 1.5 miles on the way to work with 4wd engaged then went to 2wd no prob since . Took it out at lunch to gravel lot and kicked up gravel in 2wd goosed it in 4 and it just climbed right out of it . If i have had the hub assy. replaced could the actuators stick , then just magically unstick. I thinf Ford Garage may be the cure to my problem , any ideas how much cash it'll cost .
Again i drove the whole way home without any issue grinding or otherwise .
Thanks for all the input really set my mind at ease after being told i needed diff. replaced at great expense.