My Freelander transfer case (IRD unit) is getting noisy and I am told it needs replacing. Why would it have failed so soon?
To make the Freelander handle well the front wheels are driven faster than the rear wheels. To accommodate this difference a Viscous Coupling is fitted in line with the rear prop shaft, which constantly slips. On the earlier Freelanders this ratio difference is to great causing the viscous coupling to be overworked and thus seize solid. Once seized the front wheels fight the back wheels causing transmission wind-up this rapidly accelerates the wear on the rear diff and the IRD unit, which will cause the imminent failure of either/both. Thus be warned if you need to change your diff or your IRD the viscous coupling must also be checked and renewed if necessary to stop the problem. Look at prices below for Freelander IRD, Viscous Coupling units, and fitting services.
