4x4

I have definitely had broken CVs that didn't make any noticable noise while driving in 2WD, but did make noise while they were in 4WD. Yes, they still spin in 2WD, but the noise was only noticeable in 2WD if the truck was jacked up and you were underneath, turning the wheels/ CVs yourself looking for it.

 

WOW. Never seen one that big. I would still argue that each individual pin in that chain could cause a total failure and a forging flaw leaving a crack will make it very weak.

I am not looking to question you guys, just offering a theory, but will back off.

 

Sure, I can see that. However, OP said something snapped/broke followed by loud ticking. Never heard a CV do that. They usually wear slowly with a gradual increase in noise. I hope you are right, as a much cheaper repair. I could see a busted u joint creating the noise, but struggle to see an axle doing it. Certainly hope I am wrong.

 

No need to “back off” - all good discussion!

 

The only time I've heard ticking sounds when I'm in 4wd was with my RCV axles wheeling on 40s. The RCVs weren't visibly broken but the bearing cage/race had cracked, so when the ball bearings go over the crack when there's pressure/tension that's brought on by engaging 4wd it would "tick." I had the axles repaired, no more ticking.

If it ticks on one side, then swap the axles (left side to the right and right side to the left). Ticking should end up on the other side.

 

That is one insane looking chain! Why does it look so intense compared to a timing chain?

 

The driveshafts and axles are a lot heavier than the cams and valve train

 

Interesting story about why Mr.T wore chains and gave himself the name "Mr."
It was a slavery thing, "now my chains are gold"
And a respect thing, "now when they talk to me they call me mister"
I recently learned that and gained a lot more respect for the dude.

 

we’ve busted CVs offroad in the field and they absolutely can make a loud snap. As for noise, CVs generally do not really start making noise unless under load. It seems counter intuitive to me as they are still spinning, but it is the way it normally is.

 

After you get it up in the air and a mechanic lets you know what it is then you can let everyone know what broke.