so i have recently developed a consistant nock in four wheel drive. i have a 86 3.0 4runner and i have a few questions. I thought it was the front u joint first so i replaced it and it still makes the same noise. If i leave the hubs unlocked and put it in 4wd(hi or low) it doesent make the noise. but with the hubs locked it makes the noise all the time.
1. do the 20re and 3.0 have the same gear ratio?

2. what could cause that noise?(i think it is coming from the diff itself)

3. could it be coming from the axles themselves?(the noise doesent change with relation to steering.)

 

bump!!!!!

 

anyone????

 

Gear ratio is independent of the engine type, varies with manual or automatic transmission and also in later models with the factory tire size:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/4R_TechI...tml#DiffRatios

Could be the CV joints in the axles (feel them and check for play or binding while turning them by hand). Could be a chipped tooth on the ring or pinion gear (drain gear oil and check for metal chunks). Could also be worn spindle bushings.