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Surging feeling while in 4x4??

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Old May 14, 2006 | 10:04 PM
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Question Surging feeling while in 4x4??

When my truck is in 4x4 I get a slight surging feeling, actually more like a slow gentle wind-up and then release. It does this on any surface at all speeds, worse at higher speeds of course. There are no noises associated with this condition. Has anyone had this happen before or know of the diagnosis?

1990 F-250HD 4x4 5spd
 
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Old May 15, 2006 | 12:27 AM
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Are the front wheels pointed straight ahead when this occurs--or is this only when turning the front wheels in a turn??
 
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Old May 15, 2006 | 08:48 AM
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that is what 4X4 does due to the different gear ratios between the front and rear differentials. that is why the owners manual tells you not to use 4X4 on hard surfaces. 4X4 is only for use in poor traction situations.
 
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Old May 15, 2006 | 09:04 AM
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It happens when the wheels are straight ahead or turned, no difference.

My front and rear ratios are the same (4.11:1). The only times when I've seen different front and rear ratios is when someone didn't pay attention when swapping diffs or center sections.

I know not to use my 4x4 on dry hard surfaces
 
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Old May 15, 2006 | 09:24 AM
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if you have 4:11's listed , it is most likley either 4:10 front and 4:11 rear, or 4:09 front and 4:10 rear.the front diff is almost always 1 off from the rear so it pulls at a different speed.
 
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Old May 15, 2006 | 02:27 PM
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Check your U-joint at the front pinion on your front drive shaft and check the cv joint at the transfer case.
 
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Old May 15, 2006 | 07:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Munch
Check your U-joint at the front pinion on your front drive shaft and check the cv joint at the transfer case.
Both are new. I'm wondering if it could be a problem with the hubs or maybe the drive chain in the t-case?
 
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