94 Ford Explorer 4wd problem

[Hammerman]

Hi,

I went to put my truck in 4wd today and had some problems. I pushed the 4wd button and the light came. I backed up 15ft to lock the hubs. The light stays on but 4wd doesn't work. Only the rear tires spin. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[SteveVB]

Originally posted by Hammerman
Hi,

I. I backed up 15ft to lock the hubs.

Backing up will UN- lock the hubs. You should push the button and go-forward.

If the hubs are clicking or making a ratcheting sound its time for new hubs. Manuals are more reliable, but if you just use it in the snow, the Autos will work fine.

When you want to stay out of 4wd push the 4x button again and then back up 20 feet or so to unlock the hubs.

Good Luck

 

[anchored]

I've had that same problem - I found when I pushed the button while in neutral, the 4wd would engage, although apparently that's not supposed to matter for 4hi

 

[Hammerman]

So If I push the 4wd button and then go into reverse, I'm taking the truck out of 4wd? What noises should I hear or what should I expect to happen besides the light coming on to let me know that i'm really in 4wd?

Thanks!
Michael

 

[SteveVB]

Originally posted by Hammerman
So If I push the 4wd button and then go into reverse, I'm taking the truck out of 4wd? What noises should I hear or what should I expect to happen besides the light coming on to let me know that i'm really in 4wd?

Thanks!
Michael

No not really- two different things-

First- pushing the 4wd button on the dash controls the transfer case- the transfer case transmits power to both the front and rear axles - once its on you have 4wd, when its off you have 2wd.

Second- the hubs lock the front axle to the wheels- in the Explorer they are Automatic and with power to the axle (by pushing the button to activate the front driveshaft) they connect the front wheels to the axle. The only reason to back up is to disconnect the wheels from the axle.

The axle should make some noise when its engaged- it shouldnt go on and on though - but it may take a few minutes if its cold. If you push the button and engage the transfer case, and then immediatedly go into reverse the hubs may not have a chance to lock in, when its cold it may take longer. Try going forward a bit before trying reverse.

Good Luck