Rusty&untrusty

My 4wd in my 1996 2500 constantly gives me problems. I have had it in the shop too many times to count. One problem it always would have is slamming in and out of gear while going up a hill in a field. Now my problem is that it won't stay engaged and wants to grind and grumble then engage for a while then grind and grumble again. Is my transfer case shot or is something just not engaging all the way?

nothingbutdarts

I believe they are vacuum controlled, maybe low vacuum, not enough to hold it engaged.

KATOOM

It sounds like the CAD is damaged. Either from low vacuum allowing the sliding sleeve to move when its not supposed to or simply an old worn out unit. Here's a link to help you understand what you're working with... Diagnosing 4WD Engagement Problems on Dodge Ram pickups