4x4 problem the same but different
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4x4 problem the same but different
Four wheel drive just quit working, no lights on the dash or nothing. Now i have read several post and began thinking the problem maybe the module or relays, i have already ruled out the fuse. but the difference is that I have also tried locking the hubs manually and that didn't work, should i have someone help me check the vacuum first before i start spending money on new modules and relays? Thanks I also heard that guzzle has some great replies on this i haven't found yet if anyone knows the post number Thanks again
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Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Whittier, CA
Four wheel drive just quit working, no lights on the dash or nothing. Now i have read several post and began thinking the problem maybe the module or relays, i have already ruled out the fuse. but the difference is that I have also tried locking the hubs manually and that didn't work, should i have someone help me check the vacuum first before i start spending money on new modules and relays? Thanks I also heard that guzzle has some great replies on this i haven't found yet if anyone knows the post number Thanks again
You need to understand that the vacuum locking hubs, and the transfer case shift, are two completely different systems, activated by a common switch.
The light on your dash is only an indicator of the tranfer case position. It doesn't know anything about the hubs. So if you don't have a light on the dash in 4WD, then it is a transfer case shift problem. That is most often the relays. Could be a bad shift motor, but lets go with cheap and easy first.
If the tranfer case didn't shift, and we know it didn't, then turning the locking hub dial won't matter. But you can check their function. Do this: start your engine and turn your wheels all the way to one side. Doesn't matter which way. Turn off the engine. Reach in behind the wheel and grab the axle U-joint and try to turn it. It should turn easily if the hubs are unlocked. Try both sides. Then manually turn the hub lock and reach in and try to turn the U-joint again. It should be locked. Then unlock them again. Start the engine, and try doing the same routine using the **** on the dash.
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I think I did what you said and both sides did lock in manually, so I took it around the neighborhood and it didn't fill like it was in four wheel drive (didn't shimmy any) so would it not be in 4 wheel without the relays working. Thanks for your time (snows a coming)
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Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Whittier, CA
Check those relays! They will be together in their own little box, and usually some black electrical tape around the cover. Some guys just swap them around to test. Personally, they are cheap, and I would just go buy two new relays. That's the quick and easy thing to do. After that, it gets into using a VOM to check the electrical system. You could have a bad switch, bad shift motor, etc. But if the hubs work, it is not a vacuum problem so that is one thing out off the list.
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Thank you very much, it was the relay and a 11 dollar part. I hope someone else gets the answers they were looking for from this tread. I have been worried about this all week and with your help it was a very satisfying fix
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Oct 15, 2008 06:42 PM