4wd issues (grinding in 4hcl, wont select 4h)

[chrells]

My nj wont select 4h, but will select 4hcl and 4llc, but when in those teo modes theres a rather loud grinding sound that comes when turning and accelerating and while under load. Also makes a similar grinding sound if you try drive off in 4h. Cv's have been replaced, diff has been rebuilt with a lokka and nothing was found in it. Wondering if this is an actuator or vacuum issue? No one can give me much direction on it

[thebeandr]

i would have said CV's or transfer case, could be an issue with the selector? where does the noise sound like it is coming from?

[chrells]

Cv's have been replaced and so has the transfer case. I think it's highly unlikely to have 2 busted transfer cases right? It's definitely coming from the front, kinda sounds like the actuator shaft isnt engaging properly or something so 4wd isn't fully engaged, but im no mechanic

[Alex86]

Can you safely disconnect a line from the actuator to prevent it being moved in/out and see if that stops the noise??

[stumagoo]

Pull the console and check the condition of the plastic ball on the bottom of the selector. other than that I would disconnect the front drive shaft and we if the noise continues. . See if you can get noise by lifting the front wheels off the ground and spin them you may be able the get a better idea of the location