Grinding noise after 4wd used

Yes, I thought that was what reaper wanted to check, if a hub was stuck now, so stopping the hubs operating whilst making sure the transmission selector is in 2wd fully would be the way to check.

Running the engine whilst moving the lever will try and operate the hubs, if they free up now, you wont know if they were stuck in the first place.

With the lever moved to 4wd and back to 2wd when the engine is off, the hubs stay disengaged (hopefully) so jacking a front wheel, it should spin freely. If one is still locked it should be possible to feel the load of the diff.

Although thinking about it, best to do this test straight away, with it still in the originally selected 2wd, it should be possible to rotate the front propshaft with no noises or roughness.

My guess is the release is weak due to a shot bearing, rotten pipe or even just rust on the cv splines stopping the hub centre sliding, and the grinding is an almost engaged hub trying to turn the driveshaft. A leak on the engage side will delay the green light, or make it flash, but there is no leak test for disengage.

Could be front diff pinion bearing. Mine did this, one hub would stay engaged and turn the diff. Check for play in the pinion and a leak at the back of the diff.

Worth a look.

Well thanks chap, as i've been working all weekend not had chance to read all this info properly but i've loads to go on now when i get a day off on weds.

at least i now have a starting point )