'94 4x4 clicking

[sonik]

I'm thinking of buying a '94 XLT 4 door 4x4 auto. My only concerns in the 4x4 system. I came to a stop, pushed the 4x4 button and I heard a few clicks coming from the rear, then the button lit and I was off. When I pressed the button for the lo-range (when at a stop) nothing happened. Is this sequence correct? Should I be concerned with this clicking? The same sound is also heard when the brakes are engaged. There isn't multiple clicks, just one click when the pedal is pressed.

Otherwise the rig seems great. 95k. Down to $4k at a dealer. The window says $6k, and when I mentioned the Auto trader online price, he didn't seem to happy about letting it go at that price. Less commission for him I guess.

Also, if anyone can think of something I should look for... something that fails on this model.. I would love to hear it.

 

[sncwfo99]

Did you put it in neutral when trying to shift into low range? It won't work any other way.

 

[Redrig]

yeah and you may need the brake applied also. usually there great trucks. go for it.

 

[sonik]

Ack. Didn't go into neutral or do the brakes. I should probably find a FAQ on the 4wd basics. Is the clicking normal? It's sounds more like a click or tap from an electronic part as opposed to something mechanical that's coming apart... if that makes any sense at all

 

[Bashman]

First off, welcome to the site.
The clicking you hear coming from the rear is normal. That is the 4X4 controller located in the left rear wheel well in front of the jack.
Here's some quick 4wd basics:

As you already discovered, you can engage 4x4 HI at a stop or speeds up to 55mph/88kph. The hubs will automatically unlock and relock when you reverse directions. You might hear some clicking noises coming from them then, that is alright as they are just re-engaging. Also if it cold outside, you might have to come to a complete stop before it will engage.

For 4x4 LO, you must have the tranny in neutral for it to engage. Also you must already be in 4x4 HI for LO to work. You will also have to come to a stop and place it in neutral to get it out of LO and back to HI.

To disengage 4x4 mode, press the 4X4 button, (light goes out), and reverse directions in a straight line for approx 10 feet.

You don't want to engage 4x4 on dry pavement as this is really hard on your transfer case and hubs. If you want to test the hubs for proper dis-engagement, take it to loose terain, gravel/dirt is fine. Roll down the driver's window and engage 4x4. Drive forward then when you have room, dis-engage 4x4 and drive backwards in a straight line at least 10ft. Now drive forward turning the wheel lock to lock while listening to the front wheels. If you hear a clicking noise while the wheels are turned/turning, the hubs are not completely disengaging. This is a fairly common problem on 1st gens.