4x4 Selector Switch Idea !

[Djohnson]

I have a '98 sport exp.
On the dash the 4x4 switch has
"Auto" "4x4 High" and "4x4 Low"

I was wondering if there were any way to disconnect the "Auto" setting. If you could switch the "Auto" circut on and off, it seems that you could have 4 choices.
"2wd" "Auto" "4x4 High" and "4x4 Low"

Does this make sense to anyone?

Just a crazy thought.

DJ

 

[Jefe]

Someone's done it. you cut the two speed sensor wires going to the transfer case. however your 4x4 dash lights flash every few seconds.

Found the thread I read that in:
Dead Link Removed

 

[Fred Garvin]

Hey Djohnson

I have a 98 Sport 4WD--do you have any idea on how to remove the front differential cover--I don't think there's enough clearance.

Any ideas?

 

[Fred Garvin]

Ohh,

And I don't think disconnecting the "Auto" will disengage the 4WD at all--it will remain in Auto.

In other words, the transfer case motor has three positions--normal/Auto; Low & High. Disconnecting the motor will just leave it in Auto, or wherever it was when the switch was disconnected.

Try pulling one of the fuses--look at your fuse directory--I thinks it's the "speedometer" fuse that will disengage the transfer case motor too. Unfortunately, that fuse runs the transfer motor, speedometer, power windows, dome lights and wipers. Ouch!

Maybe try placing a switch over the fuse so that you can turn it on/off when you want--be sure to fuse the hot side coming off the fuse block or you're asking for trouble.

 

[Robert]

When I was at Ford's Allen Park Test Labs in Michigan doing some work, one of the guys running the dyno told me that when they run a Control Trac equipped Explorer on a 2WD dyno, they disconnect the cable to the transfer case shift motor. I tried it out during one or our rare rainy days last year and it does disconnect the Auto 4WD from engaging. I could easily spin the rear tires at will. The 4x4 lights will flash though, but nothing else is disabled. If you could find the appropriate wire to cut and put a switch into to the solenoid, it should accomplish what you are asking. I would think the main power going to the solenoid would be a good place to start.

 

[Jefe]

To clarify: If you disconnect wires to the transfer case, yes it will be left in auto. however auto can be anything from 10% torque to 100% (?) to the front wheels, depending on rear wheel 'slip.' Since the speed sensor wires are not connected, it will never know the rear wheels are sliping, therefor it will stay at 10% torque to the front tires (basically 2wd).

 

[Jefe]

Originally posted by Fred Garvin
Hey Djohnson

I have a 98 Sport 4WD--do you have any idea on how to remove the front differential cover--I don't think there's enough clearance.

Any ideas?

You have to take apart the whole front end in order to get to the front diff. Thanks Ford.

 

[Fred Garvin]

jefe:

I didn't want to hear that. Thanks though.

 

[Djohnson]

THANKS FOR YOUR RESPONSE.

I GUESS I SHOULD HAVE SEARCHED THE FORUM FIRST.

THAT SOUNDS GOOD.

DJ

 

[Jefe]

Ok, so I've been wanting to do this mod ever since I read that other thread, and I just got finished tonight, since you all brought it back up.

I installed a switch so I have 2wd, Auto, 4High, and 4Lo.
However, along with my 4x4 lights flashing 6-7 times every few minutes it also turned on my check engine light. But it does work.