Transfer Case

[Deuce6]

I have an 02 AWD Denali with 68k miles. After everything is warm if I make a slow, sharp turn (parking space) the front end starts popping, jumping and binding as if I had a true 4WD and was in 4 low. It does not do this when the vehicle is cold.

 

I took the vehicle to the local transmission shop and was told they had already fixed 4 Denali's with this problem. They said the Vortex coupling in the transfer case is bad which does not allow the wheels to turn at different speeds. He told me that this is a common problem with the Denali after 65k miles and GM is aware of the problem. Estimated cost to remove the transfer case, disassembe and replace the Vortex coupling is $1200.

 

I then went to the local GM dealer for a second opinion and estimate. They told me at the service desk they knew exactly what the problem was-the intermediate shaft, but they checked it and it was OK. They then suggested changing the transfer case fluid, which I did, but it did not help the problem. They said they were not aware of any "Vortex Coupling" problems. They admit they do not know what the problem is, but said it could cost $1500 just to go through the steps to find the problem.

 

I guess my question is this-Are you aware of any problems with the Vortex coupling in the transfer case of GMC trucks? Any suggestions?

[ZZebes]

I honestly dont know what a vortex coupling is but i sounds like it might be available with Blinker Fluid and Muffler Bearings

[cerbomark]

go on the silveradoss.com site. they have the same awd system and there are many post about it.

[chevroletmb]

it's actually called a viscous coupling, and not that i've seen any trucks withthe problem you;ve described, the coupling is pretty much the only thing i can think of that would cause it.