2014 Sierra SLT AT 4x4 turning noise... normal?

[FishinDVM]

Hello,

I have had an old 84 sierra classic for a WHILE... just bought the new ride and I am new to 4x4's. I was just wondering if someone could tell me if this is normal. If I put the truck in 4-Hi and just drive around the neighborhood (no snow, regular pavement) nothing is wrong until I go to turn. The sharper the angle of turn the worse it is, but it is noticeable on just typical 90 degree stop sign turns. It doesn't make a grinding noise per say, but the only way I would describe it is like this: like driving a vehicle with the e-brake slightly depressed, or it is as though the vehicle really wants to slow down, or requires higher RPM, or more gas to get it going. It is very noticeable and almost seems like while turning in 4-Hi if I didn't compensate with slightly more gas it would want to come to a stop all by itself. So, is this normal? It runs 100% fine cruising straight-on by the way. Thanks, Chris

[kstruckcountry]

Yeah running with 4x4 hi locked in while turning on dry pavement isn't something you want to do. Front and rear of the vehicle are going different speeds when you turn, the sound you're hearing is the drivetrain complaining.

 

If you think you may need four wheel drive, but there are still dry spots, it's a good idea to use 4x4 auto.

[SouthernSilveradoGuy85]

4x4 isn't made for dry pavement. 4hi is to be used on harder surfaces like snow and ice. If it's still snow and/or ice on the ground and not so bad to need 4x4 all the time then have it in 4 auto. I still keep my '14 in regular 2 (not 4 auto) because I've heard of it kicking in with the ground just wet while or after it rained.

[TJay74]

As said it is hard on the clutch packs in the transfer case, might check to see if you have the G80 locker on your truck or not. If you do that means the rear is pretty much a solid locked axle, the front diff has clutch packs in it that unlock when you turn corners. Is it going to break anything, No. It doesn't help longevity either though.

[fondupot]

Why in great googly-moogly did you think it was a good idea to drive around in 4hi on dry pavement? You are lucky you didn't damage anything. Don't do it again.

 

Rule of thumb for the four wheel drive system in these trucks. It is able to be shifted on the fly, in motion, going straight. Don't engage Auto-4 or 4hi while turning. Can be shifted back to 2Hi on the fly as well, going straight.

 

2Hi - Normal Dry Pavement.

Auto-4 - Slick pavement, rain, light snow.

4Hi - Heavy snow on roads, Offroad.

4Lo - Low speed offroad.