1999 Isuzu Rodeo Question 4X4 problems

JHETH7

MEMBER
1999 ISUZU RODEO
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
138,000 MILES

I have a '99 isuzu rodeo 4x4 that has some problems with the front-wheel drive part (the "rear") when engaged. I have no problem engaging it into 4x4 and drives pretty well, even at higher speeds. However, when I turn the wheel hard around a corner, epecially if its a tight turn then the front rear begins to shake. If im at a stand-still for instance and turn the wheel ALL the way to say, for instance, get out of a parking spot, it will shake and freeze up to the point where it will not even move(almost like being tide to a pole or something. In fact, the first time I experienced this, I was at a gas station pulling away at cut the wheel tight to get out and thought I was hitting a curb or something like it was hindering me from moving. Because of this, I only use the 4x4 when absolutely necessary, like in a snow storm and when I won't have to cut the wheel in tight places. Any suggestions? Thanks, Jay.

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,170 POSTS

Jay, When this happens, are you on a surface that is dry or wet? Does this happen when you are in snow or mud?

If it only happens when the tires can get good traction, it is normal. The 4wd will fight itself when you turn.

Let me know.

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Saturday, June 20th, 2009 AT 9:51 PM

JHETH7

MEMBER
4 POSTS

It does it on dry or wet. Snow, mud, or dry black-top - doesn't matter. My friend's Dodge 4x4 pick-up doesnt do this (as he says), so he thinks maybe my front rear is ready to go or is rubbing something underneath perhaps. I've looked underneath and don't see anything unusual. Again, ONLY when I cut the wheel all the way or almost all the way. If I cut it ALL the way, it will "grind" and make a "clacking, jerking" noise until the truck doesn't move and the steering column will even shake. If its normal, then why don't front wheel drive cars do the same thing, know what I mean? Thanks guys, Jay.

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Sunday, June 21st, 2009 AT 11:32 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,170 POSTS

I understand. I was asking about the mud and snow to see if it did it there too. It isn't normal if it does. On dry pavement it will fight you.

As far as the noise, have you had the u-joints and CV joints checked? One may be bad enough to be causing it to bind. As far as a differential, if one was bad, I would think you would hear it all of the time.

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Sunday, June 21st, 2009 AT 6:05 PM

JHETH7

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thats a great point.I never thought of getting the u-joints and/or cv joints checked. Would having them damaged cause it to grind and clank when turning both directions with the wheel or it all depends?(Because I get the symptoms when turning either way.) Hopefully this won't be a costly job if so. Its got too many miles on it for a costly 4x4 job when its not necessary to have the 4x4 option. Thanks again, Jay

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Sunday, June 21st, 2009 AT 6:26 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS