4 wheel drive issue

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Jul 28, 2007 | 05:26 PM

88Vmax

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From: Ajax, Ontario

4 wheel drive issue

In the attached picture, how much movement (ie how far should it travel in or out) should I get on the solonoid end when I switch between 2WD and 4X4? The travel on it right now is very little, so would that indicate a vacuum issue or an issue with the solonoid?
Truck details: 98 F150 Lariat, 4X4 switch on dash, full time hubs.

Thanks!

Jul 28, 2007 | 07:32 PM

ReAX

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From: Central Florida

It should move enough to engage what's attached to. I'd suggest disconnecting it, lifting the wheels and manipulating it manually. Once you figure out how much throw it needs, then put a mityvac or eqv on it and see if you can move it that much.

Jul 28, 2007 | 08:02 PM

ncranchero

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From: E.Lincoln County, NC

A couple of weeks ago I could have measured the travel for you since I had my whole system laid out on the floor. I'd say it was 1" -1 1/2" but that's not gospel. You can get the diagnostics for the system from reading these posts, some of which are mine. Check it out a bit and I'll be happy to share what I know about it.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...nt-engage.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...low-range.html

Jul 29, 2007 | 11:20 AM

88Vmax

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From: Ajax, Ontario

Quote:

Originally Posted by ncranchero

Thanks Steve, the 1-1 1/2" is a good enough estimate as mine doesn't move more than a 1/4 inch each way. It does move in and out so that makes me think the 2 hub solonoids are working but the issue is with the actuator. What was involved in removing the actuator as it looks like it is a pressed in fit? Also thanks for the llinks as that helped. The post above you mentioned testing it with a mitivac which is also a good idea.

Thanks!

Jul 29, 2007 | 12:32 PM

ncranchero

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From: E.Lincoln County, NC

It's just held in the hole with an "E" clip. Really easy removal.

Also take a look here for more photos: http://s11.photobucket.com/albums/a1...ECH/?start=all

Jul 29, 2007 | 01:26 PM

aldridgec

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From: Wake Forest, NC

Keep in mind the splines have to line up in the mechanism for it to fully move. rock the truck or turn the front wheels to make sure it is lined up before condemning something.

Jul 29, 2007 | 01:53 PM

ncranchero

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From: E.Lincoln County, NC

Oh I agree, good point! It's easy to remove the actuator and prove out the vacuum system though. While the actuator is removed, if it works properly, operate the shift lever by hand to see if it will engage/disengage the axle. Most likely you will have to follow the above advise and rock or roll the truck a bit to get the splines to line up.

Last edited by ncranchero; Jul 29, 2007 at 02:08 PM.