4x4 problems
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
From: Bozeman, Montana
On first gen explorers, the wiring plug retaining clip usually breaks. so when you push the button, it doesn't engage. I had the same thing happen on my 91, and it just kinda healed itself.
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 232
Likes: 0
From: Idaho
I just bought a 92 with the electric shift on the dash. This the one thing I don't like but it has been picky about switching on and so I'm not sure even with the light on it is working. I have only gotten the 4X4 low to come on once. What does it intail repairing or cleaning the mechanical portion and where is it? I need to know the 4X4 works.
Off the subject I was hoping someone could help with cheep upgrades to the exhaust for more flow. Any other cheep and easy performance ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Off the subject I was hoping someone could help with cheep upgrades to the exhaust for more flow. Any other cheep and easy performance ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 3,742
Likes: 2
From: UT
There are a few places on the net that describe how to remove, clean, repair, and reinstall the shift motor. Try the tech library at www.therangerstation.com
blackbeats666: since you haven't been very specific in describing what does and doesn't happen when your friend tries to use the 4wd, I will also mention that the auto hubs are also a common failure point. Since both parts (transfer case and hubs) are required to get the power to the front wheels, the first step I usually recommend in diangosing 4wd issues is to first determine which part is not engaging: the transfer case (which usually means a shift motor problem) or the hubs.
I haven't heard of a posi-lock system for these (the only "posi-lock" system I've heard of is for '90's era GM front axle CAD's. 1st gen Explorers don't use a CAD). If you have a link or product description, we might be able to better comment.
bookman: Where you are having trouble sometimes getting it to go into low range, that sounds like a probable shift motor issue. However, where you "need to the 4x4 works" I would also suggest you check the hubs -- especially if you still have the stock auto hubs. You may want to consider putting manual hubs on.
blackbeats666: since you haven't been very specific in describing what does and doesn't happen when your friend tries to use the 4wd, I will also mention that the auto hubs are also a common failure point. Since both parts (transfer case and hubs) are required to get the power to the front wheels, the first step I usually recommend in diangosing 4wd issues is to first determine which part is not engaging: the transfer case (which usually means a shift motor problem) or the hubs.
I haven't heard of a posi-lock system for these (the only "posi-lock" system I've heard of is for '90's era GM front axle CAD's. 1st gen Explorers don't use a CAD). If you have a link or product description, we might be able to better comment.
bookman: Where you are having trouble sometimes getting it to go into low range, that sounds like a probable shift motor issue. However, where you "need to the 4x4 works" I would also suggest you check the hubs -- especially if you still have the stock auto hubs. You may want to consider putting manual hubs on.
Trending Topics
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 232
Likes: 0
From: Idaho
I took the Explorer out for a little 4WD and ir seems the 4 high worked because of the steep angles we climbed. But I cannot get the 4 low to light up. Some one spoke of repairing or replacing a bushing in the shift motor assembly that is like teflon and breaks cracks or just dissintegrates. Any clearer fix would be greatly appreciated
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 121
Likes: 0
I took the Explorer out for a little 4WD and ir seems the 4 high worked because of the steep angles we climbed. But I cannot get the 4 low to light up. Some one spoke of repairing or replacing a bushing in the shift motor assembly that is like teflon and breaks cracks or just dissintegrates. Any clearer fix would be greatly appreciated
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 232
Likes: 0
From: Idaho
Is that only with auto trans or with manual as well? There was a post about a bushing and was an easy fix but I could not picture the fix in my head. I did have the vehicle stopped and tried in neutral because I have a stick shift.
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 121
Likes: 0
Ok, well when you have a manual transmission you can be in gear but you must have the clutch pushed in to the floor when you go to put it in 4low.
Cargo Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,263
Likes: 92
From: BC Canada
For those (no names) that PM'd me, try to keep within the forum so everyone can learn. WE also have a wonderful search function.
I would have thought you would have tried the search function, however this should point you in the right direction.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/4...-re-build.html
I would have thought you would have tried the search function, however this should point you in the right direction.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/4...-re-build.html
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
thethrill
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
32
Feb 18, 2017 08:25 PM
