Hello folks!!

This is my first post here. It's always nice to be amongst other MOPAR folks.

I need to pick some of your brains. My dad has a 1990 Ram 350 4x4 Cummins single tired 1 ton. As of late when in a relatively hard pull it will every once and a while make a ratcheting/grinding sound. Kinda acts like it's popping out of gear (automatic trans). The sound is coming from around the transfer case shifter.

I suggested that he call the transmission shop we deal with and ask them about the tranny. The shop supervisor said it sounds like the transfer case. He said that there is a gear in the t case that when worn will begin to pop out under stress. He says it's common for that type of t case to do that. He says it's not brand specific it happens to all.

Also, when first started you can watch the truck (via alternator guage) go through this strange discharge/charge cycle. It will do this for about 5 min or until it warms up then it goes normal. We have changed the voltage regulator 2 or 3 times, and even put on a new alternator. Still does the same thing.

Would appreciate any imput from those of you that have experienced these types of problems. Thanks Larry :(

The charge/discharge cycling while cold is normal. It is the grid heater in the air intake turning on and off. It draws alot of current, so you will see the volt meter or ammeter flucuate and possibly the lights dim slightly.

I don't know what to tell you about the transfer case. I believe it should be a np205 behind that, which is a pretty stout transfer case. I suppose with higher mileage the bearings could be wearing out and causing deflection and possibly the noise you are hearing. Maybe someone else a little more familiar with the 1st gen CTD trucks will be of more help there.

mondtster,

Thanks for the info. The truck only has around 145XXX on it, but my dad has worked it's hindend off (lots of hard pulling). The NP205 sounds right, but I need to crawl under it and check. :)