94 SR front side bearing and axel question

[indika]

94 SR 4wd manual

I am getting a lot of noise on cold days only from the front end. Noise changes with speed, happens while in neutral but moving, only happens when it is extra cold.

its #4 part in this link
http://www.autopartslib.com/wp-cont...e-Shaft-Components-Assembly-Parts-Diagram.png

So I take it to my mechanic, he says the side bearing (where the axle goes into the transfer case) is shot and take to tranny shop.

I take to tranny shop and quote $1000 to replace the side bearing. but Tranny shop says if you dont engage 4WD there is no danger except the noise. but my mechanic says I could blow the housing. I dont have the $$ now to get it fixed.

My question is if the side bearing is shot and I do not engage 4WD is it safe to drive my rig on long drives etc? I know its best to get it fixed but want to wait if I can.

Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thank you kindly.

Indika

 

[indika]

after further digging, this is what I am realizing.

I dont have locking hubs, its automatic locking hubs. It only supposed to lock when I am in 4WD. and when you are in 2wd the shaft is not supposed to be turning. but I get my noise even in 2wd.

Could it be that my locking mechanism is faulting and stay locked even in 2WD. causing the shaft to turn at all times and was actually causing the bearings to wear off?

someone please answer me pls pls.

Thanks

 

[FoneRunner]

You might try the second gen section...we don't get many 94's in here!:cowboy: