Bought a used F150 FX4 earlier this year. I've deen driving in 2WD since it is summer. Put it in 4WD about a week ago and tires seem to be biting the ground or catching when turning. Straight does not feel like a problem but I didn't want to push if something was wrong and risk damaging something. I tested it in wet sand and all four wheels definitely are engaging. I will claim the dumb a$$ award for not testing this when I bought it and display it proudly in my front yard but can anyone tell me what I should be hearing when I take this to my friendly mechanic who probably needs a new boat?

 

Sounds like your four wheel drive is just fine to me. Look in your owners manual and it will tell you about turning and dry pavement while engaged. A big NO NO

 

What he said...
...and if you're new to four wheel drives, make sure to read your manual carefully so you understand how to best use your 4x4.

Good Luck!

 

99 F150 4wd---new transfer case electric motor, new actuator. checked vacuum at solenoids and both vacuum lines have suction. I then checked each solenoid for resistance (if that can be done) and my meter hit 66.6 on both solenoids. Still not engaging the front fork. I have asked others and got some great answers to look at, however, here goes a few more:

1. Can I read a resistance by touching the solenoid tabs? If yes, what
should it read. Something tells me 66.6 on both tabs isnt right. If it is, then why doesnt it send vacuum through the other lines
to the actuator? I can find any leaks?
2. If I pull both connectors and can get a small enough wire into them, what
should each connector read if I leave the key on?
3. Since I have vacuum on both lines from the vacuum lines, can both
solenoids be bad not releasing and sucking from the other sides.

I have already spent $200 on this and no movement yet. I can go buy a new solenoid set and replace it, however, what if the actuator rod still doesnt engage?