4X4 question for the mechanics

[Case]

I recently got a 95 Tahoe Z71 in a trade, and when you put it in 4H or 4L it grinds pretty loud (and this may be normal but I dont know), but just for that breif moment of shifting it in. I'm not doing it while driving, and I shift into neutral to get to 4x4.
Also, it doesnt seem to always engage 4x4. I shifted it into 4x4, and tested it by spinning the tires, and only the rear were spinning. Not sure if this is some kind of limited slip, or its just not engaging. I've had a couple 4x4s, a long time ago, and they wouldnt allow the rears to spin. But I've only owned Toyota in the past.
I'd like to sell or trade this thing, cuz I dont really need it, but wanna find out whats going on with it before I sell it to someone.

[Peachcreek]

i have had a few that would grind just for a second ingaging the 4x4. i wouldnt say it is right but it is common on a used up ole chevy . might check the tcase oil.

[noelle]

Lol trade it for a dodge!!! Sounds like it's not engaging could b alot of things hard to really say without Lookin at it 

[rdjustham]

If i remember correctly chevy had a problem back then with the actuator (i think thats what its called) engaging the four wheel drive.  Might want to call down to your nearest chevy dealer and ask what they charge for the piece to engage the 4x4..  At least then youll know what its called.   

[Legendkiller]

its called a thermal acctuator.had the same problem on my 88 chevy.if it doesent have any vacum lines going to the front diffs its got a thermal if it does have vacum lines then check and see if youv got a leak somewhere.

[dub]

Don't know that model but in my older model I can only shift to 4H in Neutral. I have to be in park to put it in 4L. I don't see them making it easier. But mine is all mechanical. It also depends on what transfer case is in it. It over 15 years old and may have been changed. There are numbers on the transfer case to identify what it is. But sounds like something is hinky. If the price is right I may be interested.

Always start looking at the vacuum lines if you have them. Sometimes it is just a minor adjustment. Where are you at? If you are not too far I will take a look.

[Mike]

If i remember correctly chevy had a problem back then with the actuator (i think thats what its called) engaging the four wheel drive.  Might want to call down to your nearest chevy dealer and ask what they charge for the piece to engage the 4x4..  At least then youll know what its called.   

That's probably it. I had a 98 Z71 and I believe it was a $100 part back then. It was a pretty common problem in the mid to late 90's... several friends had to replace theirs also.

[Case]

thanks for the replies fellas, and I'll look into the actuator.
Dub I'm in Cleveland (40 miles North of Houston), and its worth 3000 to me, but I aint completely set on that price cuz I dont really need it. I was gonna try to get a camper for the deer lease out of it. 

[noelle]

The vaccum line is not gonna make it grind it's got another problem... It won't engage the front end if it has a vaccum leak is all

[Legendkiller]

sorry thats what i was meaning my post to was the engaging.not the grinding.anoyher thot is the timing.if its advanced to much it could be causing it to grind forcing itself to grind.just a thought tho.

[Case]

[Circle C]

Shift quickly and it won't grind. Shift slow and it will, just a trait of the 90's gm 4+4. I think it has to do with the gears meshing, but not certain.
If the 4+4 does not engage, its almost always the $99.00 actuator. Sounds like the problem with yours, easy fix.

[SCHitemHard]

circle C beat me to it, just do it quickly

[Case]

Thanks guys, and I've noticed if I put it in park, and wait a second it doesnt grind at all. seems like everyone is pointing towards the actuator. I really appreciate the help from everyone.