Well I just got my '03 about a month ago and finally got a chance to really test out the 4wd (electronic - **** on the dash) with the big snow storm we just had.

First question: at first it was very slow engaging 4H even though the 4x4 light on the dash came on, I really coudn't find a pattern. At one point I drove 5 miles and it never kicked in. But then when I turned it back to 2H for a minute, then back to 4H, it kicked in. Then it seemed to get better and would switch back and forth fairly consitantly. Until it sat overnight and basically presented the same symptoms today.

Second question: same as above, but just the opposite. It wouldn't want to dissengage, but the 4x4 light on the dash would go off. If I put the truck in reverse, it seemed to dissengage everytime. But just like above, the more I went back and forth from 2H to 4H it seemed to improve. But again, it sat overnight and did the same thing today.

Third question: One time 4H dissengaged on it's own even though the 4x4 light on the dash was still eluminated. I turned the **** back to 2H for a bit then tried 4H again and it was ok and stayed in 4H for the rest of my trip without a problem. What would cause that to happen???

So what is the issue here? I have no idea when the last time the 4wd system was used. Could things just be a little "sticky"? I did some searching and read some threads about the selenoids, could mine just be sticking? One would think on a vehicle this new with only 24,000 miles I wouldn't have these problems. I fear taking the truck to the dealer for something like this, who knows what they will do. Sorry for the lengtly post, any help is appreciated.

 

Well, if it's under warranty, let them check it out. Sounds like things are just sticking from lack of use. I always turn mine on once a month just to keep everything moving. Mine worked flawlessly during our last snow/ice storm here.
The 4x4 light means that the transfercase has engaged. It sounds like the problem in the engagement of the front differential. Possibly just sticking or it could have a bent actuator or something. Since it is still under factory warranty, let the dealer check it out.

Jimmy

 

Thanks LxMan1. I just always get nervous taking a vehicle in for warranty work, I just have never had good luck. Sometimes they cause more problems than they solve. I will try to use it a bit more to see if it gets better.

 

theres a plastic cover underneath your truck in front of the front passsenger axle. theres a vacum operated solenoid type thing that actuates the front axle. you may need to spray lube on it to keep it moving freely. (you have to remove the cover to gain access to the module.) or take it to the dealer.

 

Presuming That Everything Is Operating Correctly, In 2h The Driveshaft Will Not Turn But The Axle Do, Right?