2002 4 door explorer transfer case not shifting properly

[acreativename]

I have a 2002 explorer xls 4x4. It has the 4.0 sohc engine. The vin is 1fm7u72e12ub53393. When making sharp turns in 4x4 auto, it binds like it is in 4x4 high. It is signifigantly worse when backing up. With both front wheels off the ground but the rears on the ground the front driveshaft spins free which to me would indicate that the transfer case is not stuck in 4x4 mode, but is shifting into 4x4 improperly. The front wheels both turn when you turn the driveshaft in the aformentioned scenario, so it seems to me there is no major problem in the front end. Has anyone else had similair problems? what would the next step be to troubleshooting this? Thanks!

 

[MuTroy]

I'm having the same problem with my 02 explore. Have you had any luck finding out what the problem is.

 

[jlynn1110]

I have been having the same problem since two weeks after they replaced my transmission. I have had it diagnosed as being something electrical in the transfer case, and not something they would have caught necessarily when replacing the transmission. So, how to fix? I am looking into that. Some places say it's as simple as replacing the fluid in the transfer case. I guess that's supposed to be done at or about 60,000mi. I missed that memo...lol!

I would try that first. If that doesn't work I would take it to a specialist. They would have to re-set your sensors. I was told that it doesn't hurt your SUV, it just gives you really bad gas mileage as your SUV can't decide if it's in low or hi gear. That's what causes the grinding/rubbing sound.