flashing 4x4 low range light

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Dec 16, 2005 | 06:02 AM

jlv3901

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From: pa

flashing 4x4 low range light

My 1998 f150 4.6l, 4x4, automatic with 120,000 miles started flashing the 4x4 low range light in the instrument cluster even though i'm in 2wd driving at varying speeds. I used 4x4 hi range yesterday for a couple of miles to get home without any problem and it seemed to dis-engage normally when i switched it off. I can hear a soft click from possibly a relay under the driver side dash when then 4x4 low range light comes on/off and it doesn't seem to have any pattern to the flash and it varies as to how long it will stay off, sometimes just seconds and sometimes 5 minutes. I dont think i've ever used 4x4 low range with this truck and when the light flashes it doesn't seem to affect the truck drivability in any way. Any ideas?

Dec 16, 2005 | 10:04 PM

LxMan1

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From: Louisville,Ky.

You might try scanning it for codes, there is something going on there.

Dec 18, 2005 | 08:52 AM

jlv3901

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From: pa

update on problem

No codes but more erratic problems since last post. Reading other posts from the search feature makes it seem like the gem module is probably bad from getting wet. I had the windshield replaced a month ago and it is probably leaking on it. The flashing 4x4 low range actually went away but now the airbag light is flashing and most things in the cab dont always shut off with the key and the power windows are intermittent. Local dealer agreed to the gem module problem and quoted $330 just for the part, $550 total...can i get it elsewhere? I think I could change it but that price seems steep. thanks.

Dec 18, 2005 | 10:20 AM

Racerguy

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From: BC, Canada

Did that price include both the GEM and the fuse box? They usually both get replaced at the same time.
I'm not sure what they cost. I just do the work, someone else does up the bill

It's not a really difficult job to replace them.

Dec 18, 2005 | 11:30 AM

jlv3901

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From: pa

gem module

Hi Racerguy, The fuse box was never discussed, just the gem module. The parts manager referred me to the service manager because he had none on stock and it was a "special order". To his knowledge they rarely ever went bad and doubted that it was diagnosed properly. The service manager informed me that it was quite common after windshield replacement and he actually quoted the price for the part and labor. Can I get it aftermarket and if so what is a recommended place.

Dec 18, 2005 | 11:39 AM

Racerguy

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From: BC, Canada

I doubt that you can get it aftermarket.
Do you have a few dealers in your area that you can check prices at?
In my experience if the GEM has water in it the fuse box probably does too.
The most common symptom of water in the fuse box is that the heater doesn't shut off when you turn the truck off.

Dec 22, 2005 | 06:17 PM

jlv3901

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From: pa

Quick update for others with same problem. I took the truck back to body shop that did repairs a month ago including windshield replacement. Turns out that the windshield work was done by an outside glass service company. The shop took the truck back for a day and had the windshield redone after they did find a leak. They removed fuse box/gem module and "gently and carefully" dried them with low air/ low heat blow dryer. Everything is working correctly but I sure didn't think drying them would work.