4x4 Light On But Not Engaged

[levers]

Hello,
I stumbled upon your forum looking for some information regarding 4WD problems in Ford Explorers. I have a 94 Ford Explorer XLT auto 4WD which has the 4x4 and low range buttons on the dash. I was recently stuck in the snow & used 4L. After disengaging the Low Range I then pressed the 4x4 button to switch back to 2H but the indicator lights stayed lit on the dash. So now the 4x4 indicator lights are lit on the dash, but I can tell the vehicle isn't in 4WD & pressing the 4x4 button does nothing - It will not re-engage the 4WD and the indicator light stays lit constantly. Do any of you experts have ideas on where to start troubleshooting this problem?

If I have forgotten to include any pertinent information just let me know.

Thank you!

Edited to add: I forgot to mention that now pressing the Low Range button does nothing also, including no Low Range lights on the dash.

 

[levers]

Oh and I did read the thread on the Shift Motor Rebuild, but just wondered if that was still the place to start since the 4x4 dash & button lights stay lit all the time even after pressing the button again.

 

[sbrueske]

Yes !!! Definately begin with the shift motor rebuild thread. I had the same problem. Turns out the plastic stop in my motor was completely gone. I replaced it with a small piece of plastic water line. Then I replaced the anti-theft torx screws with some small bolts and turned the cover counter clockwise 5 degrees. This took care of all my problems and I have been off and running ever since.

God Luck!

 

[levers]

OK, tried the shift motor rebuild & that didn't work - even the plastic stop was in perfect shape. Can freely move it manually from 2H, 4H, 4L with the shift motor off. Now what??? Any help/info appreciated.

 

[Mud Bug 94]

 

[Positive Vibes]

Yep what he said, try tapping on it with a hammer. Could try cleaning the connections.

 

[Mud Bug 94]

yup just didnt want to type that....