4x4 Operation Questions

[takmagic]

Hello Everyone,

I recently purchased a 2001 Ford Ranger XLT, automatic transmission, 4.0L with 35K on it. This is the first time I've owned a 4wd vehicle, so I have a few questions that the manual doesn't seem to answer:

I noticed in the manual that I should see the 4HI and 4LO lights illuminated for a second or two when I start the truck, I do not see this. I also do not see the dash lights light up when I put the dial into either mode (4HI or 4LO). However, I do hear a clicking from the control module below the glove box, attempting to engage the 4wd. It does eventually engage, but not immediately...is this normal? Should the control module just click "once" and engage the 4wd or does it take a "few" clicks to engage the 4wd? The same thing happens when I disengage - I hear clicking from the control module below the glove box and about 2 blocks later, it's out of 4wd and into 2wd again. I guess I was under the impression that when I turn the dial to whatever position I need that it goes into that mode right away and not down the road somewhere.

Also, all my other dash lights light up with no problem, it's just the 4HI and 4LO lights that don't. I checked all the fuses and they are fine. I know anything is possible, but the truck only has 35k on it, would the dash lights burn out that quickly? Not too mention, it's both modes that don't light up, so I can't imagine it's a bulb issue.

It's snowy here in my area a lot and there might be a couple days in a row where I need the 4wd. Is it okay to "park" the truck in 4wd so that when I need it the next day it's already in 4wd?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Erik

[Rockledge]

Welcome. Check out this prior thread: http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/68...4-problem.html

[Big_Al59]

It should go into 4hi almost instantly. To go into 4lo you must be stopped, in neutral and have the brake depressed. I usually hear a click or 2 when shifting into 4lo.