Play in the Transfer Case + Front Differential?

[Neuner]

Sometimes when shifting from Park into Reverse or Reverse into Drive, there's a harsher thunk that is stronger than I've heard in other vehicles. I read in a thread on here that others experience the same and that it's nothing to worry about.

I took a video of the play I found when twisting the front drive shaft. The rear did the same but not quite as much or as loose. Is this typical at the higher miles?

 

[GTV]

#1- Make sure your driveshaft zerks are greased properly.
If the issue persists check the condition of your diff mounts and the splines in the CV axle/hub.

 

[Malleus]

There are three grease fittings to a shaft; one each in the spider and one in the slip joint. That one's usually the culprit, because it gets ignored. When these drivetrains were new, there were lots (and I mean lots) of complaints to dealerships that the frozen slip joints made the trucks (pickups and Sequoias, too) feel like someone rear–ended you when you stopped at red lights or stop signs. The dealership solution at the time was to grease the snot out of the slip joints.

My son's LX470 has 312,490 miles on it and it doesn't do that. Of course, I have those shafts greased.

I also replaced the front differential bushings, which makes a significant difference; something to consider.

 

[nissanh]

there is a play, but can be adjusted. However you cannot elimitae the free play 100% best is to get a brand new oem diff and oem CV axles.