1998 Explorer 4x4 won't engage

[blongo]

I have a problem with my 1998 Explorer that just started this morning. Both of the 4x4 lights on the dash flash 5 or 6 times about every minute or so. The system will not engage into either 4Hi or 4Low. The transfer case will not engage (or make any sounds like it is trying to engage) - even into 4Low stopped in neutral with my foot on the brake.

While researching this problem, I found a recent thread that FMBone had with his 2000 Explorer for a similar problem. However, in his case the his transfer case would engage in 4Low. Some of the answers in his situation pointed to the speed sensors. Since my system will not engage into 4Low, can I rule out the speed sensors as a possible cause?

My wipers, door lock, etc. still work fine, so can I rule out the GEM as a likely cause?

Any assistance in helping to narrow down or diagnose this problem will be greatly appreciated.

-Bob Longo

 

[TPLYNCH]

6 flashes is generally the code for speed senor error.

Try disconnecting your battery for ~30 minutes to reset the computer. Let us know if the 4x4 works again or not.

 

[blongo]

Tom - THAT WORKED! I disconnected the battery for 30 minutes, and once the cable was re-connected the two 4x4 lights no longer were flashing, and the system worked normally again.

Do you know what disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes does to fix this problem?

I really appreciate your help!

-Bob Longo

 

[Jonny813]

Unless there is a difference between how long the battery is disconnected to do other things then reset the computer, you can unplug it for like 5 and get the same results... Correct me if Im wrong, but I unplug for that long and it resets.