4x4 trouble

[ninjakk]

My son hit the 4x4 button on my 91 explorer while going down the road at 45 mph, I had a sever jerk and then the left front wheel wouldn't engage and the the right. The light still comes on and you can here it trying to engage. I bought it from the original owner, who lived downtown, and only used the 4x4 2 times to go to work. So most of it should be in good shape. Anyone know what It might have done. Hubs, or shaft,et? I would like to fix it in time for the Uharrie run. Thanks for any help!

 

[holze4u]

Thats not a good thing to of only used the 4x4 2 times . Stuff can rust, seize up, not be lubed, etc..... I run my 4x4 in straight line on pavement like maybe 2-3 times a year for like 3 miles, as well as the ususal winter usage. My neighbor, a tusted and trained Ford mechanic told me to do this. As far as the severe jolt or whatever, u may have broke the ring gear in the plastic cam on the hub. Mine is, its in 2 pieces. Discovered that out when i did the brakes in December but havent had the $ or need to get the locking Warns. Maybe u should take the wheel off, and look at the hub. I'd be willing to bet thats what it is. PS, dont use the 4x4 goin over 40mph either

 

[Fhantazm]

The auto hubs probably grenaded. Best to switch to manual hubs from this point.

 

[ninjakk]

Thanks for the advise. Where is the best place to buy the manual hubs?

 

[ldg920]

Hey, you might want to also check your u-joints. I broke my driver side u-joint and i also have the same noise and jerk.

 

[simmons1]

I run my X in 4x4 hi and lo for a few minutes everytime I change my oil to ensure that it works and to keep the parts moving and lubed. I just find it to be a good preventative maintenance routine for the 4x4 system and doing every oil change makes it easy to remember. Just my $.02

 

[ahhjaws]

If you want, I have a write-up on my website on how to switch to manuals. If that is your problem. It is a very easy Do-it-yourself mod.


Goto my repairs/mods section.

 

[ninjakk]

Chris thanks for the tip and website. BIG HELP! Very COOL site. I am in the process becoming a member.