2 Lo Mod Using Vacuum switch?
Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2021
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 742
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From: S. Indiana
The question was, where to put the solenoid........ only ONE poster with an answer in response - "after the factory solenoid". Any other thoughts, warnings, does anyone really know??? I'm inclined to agree with @5Picker, but a reason why would be appreciated......
Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2021
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It's logical to put the solenoid between the last electrically controlled component and downstream mechanical parts, these trucks being so electrically garden walled. I doubt too many people with 23+ have done this mod yet so very few people can tell you the "why" and even the "how", we just have to fall back on logic on where to put such an intervention device.
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 742
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From: S. Indiana
It's logical to put the solenoid between the last electrically controlled component and downstream mechanical parts, these trucks being so electrically garden walled. I doubt too many people with 23+ have done this mod yet so very few people can tell you the "why" and even the "how", we just have to fall back on logic on where to put such an intervention device.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 2,059
Likes: 426
From: Too close to Houston
The problem I ran into was a normal 2-port solenoid had the potential of trapping the vacuum signal to the hubs if it was closed after the factory solenoid was energized. This would leave the hubs in an unwanted locked position. I’ve since found a 3-port solenoid that would have worked the way I wanted with the common port tied to the hubs, normal on tied to factory solenoid, and normal off tied open to atmosphere. When energized, the 3-port would block the factory signal and vent the hubs to atmosphere. I just never had enough interest to buy and install one as the manual system is working just fine for me as I rarely need 4x4 anyway. An added bonus is I can exercise the transfer case and front diff occasionally by just switching to 4H in the cab.
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 742
Likes: 234
From: S. Indiana
The problem I ran into was a normal 2-port solenoid had the potential of trapping the vacuum signal to the hubs if it was closed after the factory solenoid was energized. This would leave the hubs in an unwanted locked position. I’ve since found a 3-port solenoid that would have worked the way I wanted with the common port tied to the hubs, normal on tied to factory solenoid, and normal off tied open to atmosphere. When energized, the 3-port would block the factory signal and vent the hubs to atmosphere.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2003
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Likes: 426
From: Too close to Houston
In your case the procedure would have to be to activate the solenoid before switching from 2H. The hubs are already locked when switching from 4H to 4L.
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2017
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From: S. Indiana
Thread Starter
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 742
Likes: 234
From: S. Indiana
Going to manual hubs doesn't FIX anything for me , just lightens my wallet LOL
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Too close to Houston
Laughing Gas
Joined: Mar 2024
Posts: 751
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From: SE Vermont, South Jersey
I guess it's probably pretty limited use but why does this not come from the factory? My first 4WD truck (1979 Chevy K10) had three levers on the floor - any one of them could be used in any combination with the others - F/R travel gears, Hi/Lo range and 2WD/4WD (plus it had manual locking hubs...).