Just got my samurai going today. Pretty much all stock with a spoa lift and 31" tires. Drove it around for a while this afternoon in 2wd with no problem. Locked it into 4wd, and it seemed fine at first. After a while, I noticed that when decelerating from about 25~30mph or so, it would make a metalic noise in the front, like something was loose or rubbing. Didnt notice it so much while driving, just after letting on. I checked the oil in the axle, it was good, but I drained it and added new oil anyway. Still makes the noise. As far as I know, the front wheels are engaging. Any ideas?

put it in 4wd without the driveline in, and it didnt seem to make the noise. So I am thinking either my front end is shot, or I need a ujoint, hopefully the latter :P.

could be a u-joint

does it make the noise when you don't have the manual lockers on?

I havent tried. You mean put it in 4wd, but leave the hubs unlocked? I'll give it a shot.