WON'T COME OUT OF 4 LOW
 

Hi all,

About 2 weeks ago, we had a freak snow storm here in NY that took down many trees, due to the fact that the leaves were still on the trees. I had to plow my driveway and push out many large branches. I engaged 4WD, and then engaged 4 low---no problem, however, when I went to go back to 4 high or 2WD, I couldn't. I was stuck in 4 low. After numerous attempts, it finally shifted back into 4 hi, and then with a flip of the switch I was back in 2WD. A few days later I tried it again---same problem--couldn't get out of 4 low---at all. I shut the truck off, and let it cool down for a few hours and tried it again, and it came right out. I'm following the proper procedure---shifter in neutral and foot on the brake pedal, but most of the time it refuses to disengage low range. I checked with my scanner today, and there are no codes, and the brake light switch is working and the trans range selector is right on. I know there are 2 relays in one of the boxes under the hood that control the transfer case shift motor. Are these only used for low to high shifting or 2 wheel to 4 wheel shifting ??? Has anyone had this problem before ??? I need to get this solved before it snows.


RON

Since u said flip of a switch, I am going to guess you have the esof 4x4 system. The knob instead of the manual lever.

It sounds like maybe your shift motor is weak. That is just a guess though. I have had a couple do similar and replaced the shift motor to fix.

It may just be binding up a little. Sometimes I have to let it roll a little while pushing the brake just hard enough to activate the brake switch but not stop the truck and then turn the knob.

But, it could be a sticking relay. There are two identical relays, by themselves, in a relay box. One relay moves the shift motor from 2WD to 4WD to 4Low. The other relay moves it in the opposite direction. Swap the relay positions and if you start having difficulty getting it INTO 4WD or 4Low, then you might have a relay problem and should just replace them. After inspecting for corrosion and stuff.