Front Dif Problems

[codeman0174]

I have a 99 1500 with 4x4 issues. I pulled the axle actuator out and found that the plastic was cracked and damaged. I got a new actuator and when i tried to put it in, I found that there is a rod in the way keeping me from being able to screw the actuator in. I tried to push this rod back in, and pulling it out, but the only movement I get is up and down, left and right. So I think its safe to assume that there is something wrong in the front end. I jacked up the front and spun the tires and I cant hear anything inside the front dif. I also drained all of the fluid and no pieces came out and there was just a little bit of shavings on the plug. Any help would be appreciated.