Need help- clunk/thud like sound

[chazlink]

I have a 97 4runner limited 4WD and when I disengage the 4-wheel drive using the button I hear a thud like come from underneath frnot end area. Kinda feels like transfer case moved or something. Anyone experience this? Any help would be awesome.

 

[DRC]

85 views to this post and no one can offer any help?

I don’t have a 3rd gen so I am not familiar with it specifically, but can you give some more details?

Is this a new truck for you or has it just started making this noise?

How many miles?

When was the last time the diff / transfer case fluids were changed?

Any metal shavings in the diff / transfer case fluids? (assuming you changed the fluids)

Is the thud every time you disengage or once and a while?

Any thud engaging 4wd?

I am just kind of thinking here…have you check the engine mounts, tranny mounts, etc., to see if anything is lose or broken?

 

[ironhippy]

I have two 3rd gens but I don't have push button 4wd drive.

When I engage/disengage 4wd I don't hear a noticeable "thud" but I can tell when it engages/disengages from sound alone. It certainly doesn't feel like the transfer case is moving though.

My only advice is if it doesn't sound destructive, try it a few more times and see if it gets better or worse. If it does sound destructive, then don't do it!