My 4x4's transfer case is making a grinding noise and I'm worried

[valentinefurbank]

I've got a 2016 Mitsubishi Pajero that I use for desert driving on weekends, and I recently started hearing this worrying grinding noise from the drivetrain when I engage 4WD, especially when turning at low speeds on loose surfaces. It's not a noise I've heard before and it's making me nervous about taking it off-road again until I know what's causing it. I've checked the transfer case fluid and it looks clean, but the noise is definitely coming from somewhere in the drivetrain and I'm worried it could be the transfer case chain stretching or the bearings starting to fail. I've been doing some research and apparently these Pajeros can have issues with the actuator motors and the chain tensioners, but I'm not experienced enough to diagnose it myself and I don't want to start guessing and throwing parts at it. A mate from my off-road club recommended I take it to a place that does reliable gearbox repair in sharjah, because they actually understand 4x4 drivetrains and can properly diagnose whether it's the transfer case, the transmission, or even the front differential causing the noise. I'm hoping it's something relatively simple like a low fluid level or a worn actuator, rather than a full transfer case rebuild which would be expensive and time-consuming. I've got a big desert trip planned with the family next month and I really want to have the car sorted before then, so I'm keen to get it diagnosed properly as soon as possible. Has anyone else dealt with a similar noise on their Pajero or similar 4x4, and what ended up being the cause? I'd really appreciate any advice on what to expect and whether there are any common issues with these vehicles I should be aware of.