I have a 2000 Ram 3500 4x4, (127,000 miles) yesterday while pulling a loaded trailer, the drivetrain began making a loud irregular banging noise like something was trying to engage and then immediately would disengage. I was in 2WD at the time, however it does the same thing in 4WD. I have been advised it could be the drive chain slipping in the transfer case??? Any ideas?

 

Maybe a u-joint or carrier bearing? I'm not positive but they are worth checking.

 

I was advised by local Dodge dealer service dept about the carrier bearing. I have removed the rear driveline, and the carrier bearing doesn't look good, but U joints are good. Drove the truck a few hundred feet via the front wheel drive, and still have the same banging noise.

 

Put the transfercase in neutral and try jacking up the rear end and put it on safety stands. Turn the rear wheels and drive shaft. If you don't find it there, jack up the front and put it on stands and turn the wheels and drive shaft. If you don't find it there put the T-case in 2x4 Hi and turn the rear drive shaft. You should find it in one of the three places. Good luck