Differential seems to be binding up. 03 Safari AWD

[Forgivenbob]

Hello,
I bought an 03 Safari AWD w/130,000 on it 3 years ago..
I really enjoy the AWD in the snow, but on dry pavement, the rear end seems to bind up..
I have 167,000 miles on it now, and it seems to be getting a lot worse..
I had the gear lube checked last winter, and was told that the level and consistancy looked good.
What could be causing this.?
I'm injured and out of work at the moment, so any help would be greatly appreciated..
Thank you.

[MountainManJoe]

did you flush out the transfer case with autotrak II fluid? There is a technical bulletin on this problem.

[Forgivenbob]

No, I'm not aware of any..
Is it like a recall or something, where the dealership will do it, no charge.?

[MountainManJoe]

No, there's nothing to recall. You just replace the fluid in the transfer case with Autotrak II
It cost about $10 per qt when I did it years ago.

Service Bulletin 99-04-21-005E - Transfer Case Shudder
PIP3012F - Transfer Case Shudder On Turns

(see attachment)

[Herbie]

What are the exact symptoms that you think is the diff binding?

Not saying you're wrong, just trying to get a baseline.

Also, what's your load like? (I had some problems with the behavior of the lunchbox locker I had installed in my van that were rooted in the rear end being a bit over the rear GAWR.)

[MountainManJoe]

if it's not that, then it could be one of these things

• The governor assembly is tight in the case and/or bushing
• Broken or weak governor flyweight spring
• The flyweight in the governor assembly is stuck open
• The cam plate or the governor drive teeth are broken