4x4 Issue .. front not engaging

[JamesB]

Hi all,

I did some looking but can't seem to find what I need to know.

First off, I had to replace the driver's side front spindle assembly due to what sounded like wheel bearing issues. Today when I was on a sheet of ice and had to get un-stuck, I engaged 4x4 LO but the front wheels did not spin at all - even though the rear wheels did.

Is the spindle itself part of the locking mechanism? There is an electrical connector on it which I was told was the ABS sensor.

My second question deals with diagnosing 4x4 problems. How can I test to see whether the front wheels are engaging or not? Can I simply put the vehicle up on 4 jack stands, put it in drive and have a helper check that at least one front and one rear wheel is spinning?

Thanks for your help!

 

[Bills98Explorer]

If you tried to engage 4 lo were you in neutral,and was the vehicle stopped??
Did you try 4x4 hi?

 

[Bronco638]

JB,

As an owner of a '96, you and I have the same 4WD system (or used to before I modified mine). Your spindle issue would not have caused an engagement problem with your 4WD. Our trucks (1995 - 01 "Generation 2") don't have lockable/unlocakable hubs (like some of the 1991-94 "Generation 1"), the CV driveshafts are connected to the front hubs directly. So, they are always spinning. The wire running to your front hub is for the ABS.

Sounds like you have transfer case issues. The "disconnect" in our 4WD system is the electronic clutch in the t-case. I'm surprised that you didn't notice any flashing lights on the dash when you tried to engage 4WD. Perhaps your t-case shift motor is not working. There's an excellent thread, if you search, on how to rebuild it.

The more familiar you become with your truck and the more symptoms you can provide will give us more to clues to the actual issue.

Hope this helps - Dave.

 

[gijoecam]

The short answer is check the Center Axle Disconnect on the front axle. it's either a stuck solenoid, vacuum leak, or bad actuator.


Now for the long answer:

On the 95, there are a few simple checks to do. Jack the front wheels up and turn the key on. Shift to 4x4 high. Crawl underneath and see if the front driveshaft will turn. It should be locked to the rear driveshaft.

Assuming it's locked as it should be, we can rule out any transfer case issues. The solenoid that locks the CAD could be stuck, the vacuum line could be leaking, or the actuator could be sticking, but it would point to a problem there in the front end.

-Joe

 

[JamesB]

Thanks much guys!

Wow - awesome replies.

I'll put the front end of the beast up on jack stands and try what you suggested, Joe. I have put the vehicle through some semi-rough use during the summer and might have caused the solenoid to become stuck (esp. with winter and road-salt here).

Dave, thanks for the info on the hub situation - I had to replace the CV shaft this summer after demolishing it after a day on the trail and wondered how the system worked (being only mildly familliar with 4x4 systems). I'm going to re-read that t-case thread to have a good idea of what would need to be done before I poke around with the xfer case.

Thanks again to your replies guys - advice is ALWAYS appreciated.

I will keep you all posted on the status as I figure it out =)

James
4x4 "newbie"