4x4 not working. Electronic shift 4x4 works. Instrument cluster indicates 4x4 is shifting. No engine codes.
4x4 does not engage front tires. Checked front IWE actuator on the wheel hub.
Driver side, with engine off: when wheel is rotated the axel rotates as well ( this is good). Used vaccuum pump on iwe vaccuum port (on the hub) axel disengaged.

Passenger side front tire: when tire is rotated (engine off), only tire spins (slight rattle ticking sound). No axel rotation. When vacuum is applied to iwe vacuum port, axel disengages and spins with no noise and no axel roation. Iwe holds the vacuum pressure.

Is it possible that the IWE is filled with dirt/grease and can be cleaned or should it be replaced?

 

Any tips for the iwe removal?

 

I had a problem like this with my old 06 F150 and Ford ended up replacing the IWE assembly and solenoid that controls the IWE. The new solenoid had been redesigned with a small watershield on it. Tech said that when water gets in the ports it makes its way down and it ruins the IWE. Chances are water got in and now the IWE/hub is all corroded inside and replacement is the only option. Sorry.


Matt

 

Did you replace both the iwe and the hub? What year did they put in the shield over the solenoid to prevent this.

 

You've got to pull off the from wheel knuckle to access the IWE. I replaced mine last summer when I replaced upper/lower ball joints. Don't forget to get a new gasket as well as it is not included with the IWE kit.