Has anyone here tried replacing their IWE (Integrated Wheel End) Actuators on their own?

I've got a 2004 FX4 SCab, and I've replaced the vacuum solenoid, cleared the lines of any water, and I still can't get the hubs to engage properly. The transfer case is shifting, and does turn the half-shafts, but one or the other or both IWE actuators are failing to engage when the vacuum is released.

I picked up this truck last August with 79,000 km's on it, and the 4x4 worked when I picked it up, but sometime between then and two weekends ago (when I needed it next), it has failed.

I'll double-check that I've got vacuum going to and being released from both IWE actuators, and I suspect I do at this point, but if that's confirmed then I think I'll just replace both actuators so I know that aside from the vacuum lines, the rest of that system is new.

Has anyone here done this work on their own? I've done all kinds of mechanical work on past toys, and I've got plenty of tools for this.

Any help/advice would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Sean

 

Looking at my '07 shop manual, it looks like they just come out as a unit, so I'm betting you wouldn't have much trouble doing it yourself given your previous experience.

 

I think I am having the same problem you described. Did you replace the IWE actuators? Its a dealer only part correct? What does the 'stealer' want for them?

 

they are very easy to get off the truck. in fact, anyone that has installed a lift with new steering knuckles has done just that. once you get the new ones, you could probably replace each one in about 45 minutes in your driveway. the easiest way is to pop the knuckle off from the truck, and then there are only 3 small bolts holding them to the knuckle. im not sure what the stealership charges, but its a fairly simple job to do yourself, since you have all the tools.

 

Given that it was -13 deg Celsius when I got up this morning, I decided to use that aftermarket warranty I bought with the truck back in August. I took it in to the GM dealership I bought it from, and they sent it to the Ford dealership I usually deal with. Turns out they're replacing both the left and right actuators, plus the vacuum solenoid again (???), plus a plastic vacuum reservoir that apparently cracked when some water in it froze solid.

The good news is, this is all only going to cost me my $100 deductible and the warranty will cover the rest.

Oh, and maybe it helps that I know the service writer at this GM dealership, but I have to say they've really treated me well. I had expected it to be a nightmare to get my Ford F-150 serviced by a GM dealer, but so far it's been a good experience.

...Still love my Ford though!

I'll update you again when the job is done. I'll eventually do some wrenching on my truck, but it's just too cold right now for this job to have been the right time.

Thanks for the feedback, everyone!

Cheers,

Sean