Is AWD just a bad design?

[humbo]

I have to replace the front dif on my NTM 03 Denali. Since I can't do my own work, it will cost me $1000. Various sites and shops, including the dif rebuilder tell me that it's a bad design and I'll be looking at doing the same thing in another 40000 miles even if I take really good care of it. Is the design of the 4-wheel drive system have the same front dif? Even if it did, I guess since the front dif is only used when the thing is in 4WD, it will probably last a good bit longer. The answer I get here will tell me whether to sell the AWD and get a standard 4-WD Tahoe or Yukon or not. Thanks

 

[Atomic]

What part of it actually failed? Its not a bad design for a stock application. The tcase coupler tends to fail with high power applications, but the front end is actually the same as the 4wd, just minus the accuator.

 

[OR VietVet]

I have to replace the front dif on my NTM 03 Denali. Since I can't do my own work, it will cost me $1000. Various sites and shops, including the dif rebuilder tell me that it's a bad design and I'll be looking at doing the same thing in another 40000 miles even if I take really good care of it. Is the design of the 4-wheel drive system have the same front dif? Even if it did, I guess since the front dif is only used when the thing is in 4WD, it will probably last a good bit longer. The answer I get here will tell me whether to sell the AWD and get a standard 4-WD Tahoe or Yukon or not. Thanks

At the same time was the tech asking/offering to install some upgrades to make it better at a higher price? You know, like super duper special bearings/seals/gears....etc.?

 

[jdpber]

^^ yup this.

AWD systems in any vehicle get constant use and simply put they can fail like any constantly moving part. Hell this model is pushing 10years plus and one would expect a drivetrain issue on an AWD vehicle. This is why I would not buy a used denali.

 

[humbo]

I should have given more info. I'm the third owner. There's been no heavy duty use. Just daily driver stuff. The odometer has 82400 miles. The rear diff was rebuilt by a local shop for the previous owner. They put bearings and seals in it only. No noise coming from it now. Both the tech at the GM dealer and the tech at my local shop (who are as good as the dealer) did not try to sell me anything. The dealer tech said he thought it was the carrier bearing. He looked in the diff with a light/camera tool and said the wear pattern on the ring and pinion looked ok. The rebuilder is the one who advised me that they have a life expectancy of about 40000/60000. They are a reputable rebuilder. All the dealer was going to do was break it apart, put new bearings and seals in it and put it back together. No ring and pinion. No one said there was anything to do to upgrade it. The local tech said he thought the transfer case might be involved, too, but after he drove it, was sure it was the diff.
So, I'm back to the same question. AWD and spend $1000 for a new diff and possibly some more if the transfer case is involved or sell it and get a conventional four wheel drive. Please give me advice. You guys are the experts and I'm not. Thanks again

 

[OR VietVet]

The other 4wd rigs can be turned on and off. The AWD is there all the time. It is going to have more wear because of that. The AWD is a plus if you drive in inclement weather on a regular basis, even wet roads in rainy climates like here in Oregon. Worse around Seattle. You can track better and stop better. But if the roads are mainly dry then it is a function that is overkill. IMO. I like to turn mine on and off as needed.

 

[Marv02]

what I been reading even the part time 4WD will go though front Diffs might as well learn how to rebuild it you're self.

So if wears out again just rebuild it you're self the parts are not much money and it be a one day job from pulling out put on the bench rebuilding it and reinstalling it.

 

[humbo]

Marv, your idea is right on and 20 years ago, that's what I would do. But at age 77 with arthritis in my hands, I don't think I can do it. My son-in-law could but he works 50% of the time and likes to spend time with his family when he's home. But, just for the sake of the question, is there a rebuild kit and what does it involve? Maybe there's a link. I'll look for it.

 

[livingez_123]

Every 40k for a new one? they are good to 100k if properly serviced. I rebuilt mine with 120k on it. if you can take it out, it's about $450 to have it rebuilt. I would be finding a new shop.
It's not a bad design, its the aluminum case. they tend to be softer compared to the cast steel case and things just move around more.

 

[Marv02]

Understood

I understand I am 52 now planning to put a new engine and transmission in it my self in a year or two after that if don't last I just go get a new one I getting to old to keep on doing this type of work on my own.

Marv, your idea is right on and 20 years ago, that's what I would do. But at age 77 with arthritis in my hands, I don't think I can do it. My son-in-law could but he works 50% of the time and likes to spend time with his family when he's home. But, just for the sake of the question, is there a rebuild kit and what does it involve? Maybe there's a link. I'll look for it.