1997 f150 electronic 4wd not working, lights on dash not working(they light up on start up) replaced tranfser case motor still not working, checked all fuses, Do not feel or hear clicks on vacuum solenoid, Top vacuum lines on both have vacuum. Where do i go from here? what do i check next, Thanks in advance for any and all replies.
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If you have not done so, read the first HOW TO on 4x4 on the thread page to become more familuar with the system operation.

 

yes I've read it, and tons of other forums, I really thought I had it figured out with the transfer case motor but I did not unfortunately.

 

Have some one operate the switch to 4H while your under the truck, in either Park or Neutral with the wheel blocked and EMG brake and foot brake on for at least some safety.
Feel/hear the case motor run to it's first position and back again when 4H is turned back to 2wd.
If yes, there is a board contact issue, actuator does not work, or the internal shaft is faulty.
If no, you have one possible cause of inoperation.
Going backward to the dash controller, the switch signals the GEM modual that does the case motor control.
Somewhere in that lineup can be the cause.
You have to do the testing to find where the failure is.
Good luck.

 

I do not feel or hear anything coming from the t case motor, Truck in neutral or park with the wife trying all the positions 2h 4h 4l, I guess Im leaning towards the switch on the dash?

 

Switch seldom is a problem in all positions.
On the back of the dash fuse panel is the GEM module.
Check for a windshield leak that may have dripped on the module.
Be sure you did not miss a blown fuse that feeds the motor through a relay.
If the relay does not operate the Gem is not signaling it.
The 4w lamp only lights from the GEM module after the operation has completed. It is not lighted directly by the switch.
Good luck.

 

ok, thanks. I will recheck the fuses again(3rd time) I wont be able to till wednesday my next day off. (12 hour work days and fading sunlight). If fuses are good and If it appears there are no leaks on the gem. Possible relay issue?

 

This was posted on another website.



"Common Symptoms of a bad GEM Module. <?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o></o>

• Windshield wipers work only sometimes or not at all.
• Dome lights stay on all the time, work sporadically or not at all.
• For 4X4 Models with ESOF, Your 4 Wheel drive does not work at all, or stays in 4 wheel drive.
• Your Windows quit working all together or roll up and down all by themselves for no reason.
• Dash lights quit working.
• Radio stops working."

My power windows do that sometimes
My dome light does that also
my 4wd is not working,
I am gonna pull the gem tomorrow

 

Truck fixed, It was the Gem module,(also called body control computer) 1/2 hour replacement. $371 from ford dealer. But i ordered it online from autopartscheaper.com for $231 + $50 for overnight shipping. they come preprogrammed. 1997-1998 f150 does not need programming. They were very helpful over the phone and answered a ton of my questions.

 

I agree with bluegrass