Transfer case rattle?

[454k5blazer]

While driving in 2hi at speeds over 50, there is a rattle in my transfer case. The shifter vibrates back and forth and there is a metallic sounding rattle. If i put a little bit of pressure on the shifter with my hand, the noise goes away. Wondering if anyone might know what it may be?

 

[nvrenuf]

Could be a driveline vibration transmitting through the shifter.

Specs?
Any lift?
Any recent work done?

 

[dyeager535]

What transfer case? Pretty common from my experience with the 205, since the shifter butts up against the adapter and bolt head, especially if the wave washer or some other sort of dampener is not in place.

 

[imiceman44]

While driving in 2hi at speeds over 50, there is a rattle in my transfer case. The shifter vibrates back and forth and there is a metallic sounding rattle. If i put a little bit of pressure on the shifter with my hand, the noise goes away. Wondering if anyone might know what it may be?

If it's the stock np208 in your 85 it could be low on fluid.
It happened to me.
If you keep going it might kill it.
If you swapped in a 205 then it's possible outside vibration

 

[diesel4me]

I had a NP-205 coupled to a SM465 that rattled like crazy,it was due to the splined coupler that joins the two had splines all hogged out--the output shaft on the SM465 had the splines all badly worn (the 10 spline old style ),so I replaced the coupler and put locktite "Stud & Bearing Mount" stuff on the splines--it stayed silent about a month--then started rattling again..never gave me any trouble,but it was un-nerving driving it,wondering if or when the thing would strip out completely..

 

[Stephen]

Most T-case noises in a lifted truck are driveshaft angle related. That's generally one of the first places to go, as mentioned already. Obviously making sure it has oil should come before that!

 

[Blue85]

Could the shifter be misadjusted and it's on the verge of engaging? Also could be the pads are gone on one of the shift forks letting it rattle. But I've had that happen and it never rattled.