Twice in the last couple of days, my tranfer case has decided to engage on it's own.

First: Stop and go driving, my dash indicator lights start flashing, like the case is in the process of either enagaging or disengaging. Checked lever, and it was fully "back" in 2WD. Toggled the lever between 2WD and 4WD a couple of times, and the lights would go solid (engaged), but would not stop blinking when disengaging. I unloaded the driveline (decelerated, shifted to neutral, etc...). Finalyl after a LONG time they went off. Some time later I noticed a small whine. I engaged and disengaged again, and it went away.

2nd: Idling in garage. Starting and stopping the engine. Start #3, and the lights are flashing again. Back down the driveway, and the thing feels like 4WD-Lock (i.e. I could feel the driveline binding on the pavement). Shifting in and then back out released it.

I'm pretty certain that I did not accidentally bump the lever, especially the second time. Both times when I checked the lever it was seated in the 2WD position.

Current plans: Change the fluid. It's got ~98000, and I don't know if ever been changed. Any other suggestions?


-Steve
-1995 Montero SR 3.5L V6 DOHC