1996 Explorer 4.0 4x4 not working

[mikeonthemic10]

hey, i have a 1996 ford explorer 4.0 xlt. 4x4 isn't working. 4x4 lights come on when i turn the dial but no clunking is happening in the t-case. checked all the fuses, wiring is good, lights on dash don't flash. what could it be?

 

[XLTrunner]

The shift motor on the side of the transfer case could be seized.

 

[mikeonthemic10]

Ok thanks i'll look into it

 

[Robman]

Electromagnetic thing isnt working In the transfer case to engage the front driveshaft.

 

[mikeonthemic10]

So will getting a new transfercase motor fix this problem?

 

[Robman]

So will getting a new transfercase motor fix this problem?

Not to my knowledge. I have a similar issue with one of my explorers where the front driveshaft only engages when it wants to...

 

[XLTrunner]

I'm not advocating running out and spending $80-$100 on a new motor in hopes that it will fix your problem. Just saying it's one of the items that needs to be considered before assuming the transfer case needs to be opened up and repaired; which, of course, isn't cheap (cost me around $700 to have a shop rebuild mine last Spring). Unfortunately, I'm not sure how to bench test a motor.

In my own situation, as a last resort, I made the decision to take a chance by replacing the motor myself to save some money as I figured a shop would recommend a 19 yr. old motor be replaced as part of a rebuild anyway...and, they would charge me at least double what it would cost to do it myself. And, I just might have gotten lucky and solved the problem. Well, it didn't solve the problem...but, at least I knew I'd have a new motor on a newly rebuilt transfer case for a little less money spent.

 

[Macgiobuin]

Instructions say you have to place the tranny in N, touch the brake two times (lets the transfer case know that you are not traveling at speed, and that the drive shaft is free from being locked in park). I always have my car rolling at about 2 mph, in neutral, tapped brake 2x, when switching to 4WD.

 

[Robman]

Are you trying to go into 4lo or just 4hi? You have auto 4x4 or 2wd option? For some reason I thought you just meant the front wheels arent engaging. Im on my phone past few days as im away so typing and reading is alittle hampered.