4wd problems

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Mar 4, 2006 | 10:52 AM

elkarcher

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From: utah

4wd problems

I posted a while ago about a problem i am having with my four wheel drive. 99% of the time it will not engage. One time when it did engage, I couldnt get it to come out. We had to jump the relays to get it out. Sometimes it will go in if I manually lock the hubs but not always. I recently replaced my wheel bearings and they came with new hubs so I thought that would maybe take care of the problem but I was wrong. Any ideas? Thanks.

Mar 4, 2006 | 08:03 PM

Muktown

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Joined: Jan 2006

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From: Elkhorn, WI

did you check your connection at the transfer case maybe it came loose and sometimes connects and other times doesnt

Mar 5, 2006 | 02:06 AM

dslmn

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Do you use the 4WD often? The electric solenoids used to engage 4WD are notorius for sticking if not used periodically, especially if you run in wet and muddy conditions. I have crawled under more than one Explorer to work on these in the mud. If it is sticking, you can tap on the solenoid housing with a screwdriver handle while engaging the switch (do it with the transfer case in neutral and the brake set!) Don't know if the switch housing is accessible on the newer vehicles. I prefer manual shifters just for this reason. If you have electronic ones, you should engage them at least once every couple of weeks just to keep them moving and check them out before you stick the vehicle and decide it's time for 4x4. It's even worse if you can't get them to disengage and you have automatic hubs. Had this happen on a hunting trip with a buddy's Jeep. Had to pull the rear drive line and run it home in front wheel drive.

Mar 10, 2006 | 08:45 PM

elkarcher

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From: utah

I removed the transfer case motor to check the condition and it looked alright. I didnt take it apart completely. I took note as to the position of the motor and switched it into 4 high. As you can see in the picture, the red markings indicate where it was in 2 high. I dont know how many degrees it actually turned or if it only turned a little bit to the position it is in now, however when I switched it back to 2 high it didnt turn at all and now I cant get the motor back on. I tried the switch out of my dads truck with the same results so I know it isnt the switch. I also checked the fuses and relays and there is plenty of vaccuum pressure in the pump. Through process of elimination, I am thinking the problem must be somewhere between the motor and the switch on the dash. I will check the connections on the motor with a test light tomorow. If anyone can see where I may be wrong somewhere in my thinking, will you please let me know. Or, if anyone has any experience with these systems or any ideas I would greatly appreciate any tips. Thanks.

Mar 10, 2006 | 08:56 PM

chrono4

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Joined: Jan 2004

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From: Elkhart IN

if it didnt move back, its probly bad, and need cleaned or replaced.

Mar 10, 2006 | 09:39 PM

elkarcher

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From: utah

If I take it apart to clean it will I be able to get it back together without a manual? Are there any gaskets or seals that I will need to replace? Thanks for your response