'97 4WD Control Trac

[tenikiwon]

Since we've finally gotten our snow and crappy weather I've noticed a noise/bang from what sounds like when I hit the gas. It doesn't do it in 2WD, I know it does it in AUTO, but I'm unsure about in 4WD.

It doesn't do it all the time so I don't know if its possibly snow/ice buildup - I doubt it 'cause its happened a few times.

4WD/AUTO still work (you can notice the difference)

My front Diffy has a slight leak and the fluid needs to be changed.

No other noticeable problems in any of the linkage that I see.

The t-case fluid was changed in Dec and not off-roading since.

I normally use 2WD.

 

[dogfriend]

Are you talking about using the brown wire mod when you are talking about 2wd?


I would check for problems in the front end: bad CV joints, front pinion, front driveshaft CV.

Also check the level of the front diff since you can see its leaking.

Its also possible it is a problem with the transfer case clutch, since it only occurs in 4wd Auto/ 4wd High.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Wasn't there a TSB for harsh engagement of AUTO in the '97's? A reprogramming of the GEM was the fix if I recall correctly.....

 

[dogfriend]

Originally posted by TPLYNCH
Wasn't there a TSB for harsh engagement of AUTO in the '97's? A reprogramming of the GEM was the fix if I recall correctly.....

I think your right, there is a TSB. I have had any issues with mine, but my X is a late 97 model.

 

[tenikiwon]

Reprogramming

What's the best way to get the PCM and GEM reprogrammed? What the cost, etc? I know I need to do it but I don't know if it's going to take and arm & leg to do it.

With CV joint normally you can see the boot damaged or it does it while turning (hrrmmm... Front wheel drive experience, 4WD would be different I guess)

The shop that told me about the front diffy didn't seem too concerned but said it should be done. Any idea on cost for this? It's too cold out and I don't have a garage to work in now.

Thanks for the help.

 

[dogfriend]

Re: Reprogramming

Originally posted by tenikiwon
What's the best way to get the PCM and GEM reprogrammed? What the cost, etc? I know I need to do it but I don't know if it's going to take and arm & leg to do it.

I think the only way to reprogram the PCM or the GEM is with something Ford calls the Service Bay Diagnostic System (SBDS). As near as I can tell from the info in the Ford Technical Manual (Ford CD), this is similar to the Ford NGS scanner but has more capabilities including reprogramming the PCM or GEM.

Im guessing that the dealer is the only place you will find one of these.