Clunk when I turn off the 4wd on my DK45 HST ?

whatsgnu · Nov 17, 2009

Just wondering if this is normal, when I flip the switch and turn off the 4wd and start moving , after about 10 feet or so there is a release of engagement ( not sure just how to describe it ) and then the front end seems to freewheel fine. I guess what I want to know is, is this normal or should there be instant release when the switch is flipped off and instant freewheeling when I start to roll ? Thanks for your answers !

steve0413 · Nov 17, 2009

My DK45 HST will do the exact same thing. So, when disengaging the 4WD, I stop with the front wheels as straight as possible, flip the switch, press the back pedal, then forward. No clunk ever this way. Otherwise, the "clunk" is very annoying and from the sound, it couldn't be good for the 4WD.

whatsgnu · Nov 17, 2009

Thanks for the response, I've also found that keeping the wheels straight minimizes or seems to eliminate the "clunk". Turn the wheels and it sure seems like something is not liking whats happening !

Thanks again !

Eagleview · Nov 18, 2009

It's just the wind up of the drive line unloading , it is caused by slight miss matches of wheel speed from all 4 wheels binding the drive line up (especially whilst turning in 4X4). Do as Steve suggests , this will unload the wind up in the drive line .

whatsgnu · Nov 19, 2009

Thanks Iron Horse, that's just what it feels like, just wanted to be sure !

MotorSeven · Nov 21, 2009

steve0413 said:
My DK45 HST will do the exact same thing. So, when disengaging the 4WD, I stop with the front wheels as straight as possible, flip the switch, press the back pedal, then forward. No clunk ever this way. Otherwise, the "clunk" is very annoying and from the sound, it couldn't be good for the 4WD.

I do the same as Steve. The only time I ever heard mine "clunk" was when I got in too much of a hurry & did't take time to do it right.

RD