97 Ford Explorer Doesn't Move...Transfer Case Problem

[hopeford]

I believe the model I have is the AWD version. I will check. You can hear the transmission shift into gear, but the transfer case makes a grinding sound and doesn't engage anything and it sits in place. It has to be held with the e-brake or it will roll. I haven't been able to find a similar problem and was hoping someone familiar would be able to guide me in the right direction. I was planning to purchase a used transfer case, but I'm not sure which one I have. Also, I'm not sure that my problem isn't fairly simple like the little electric shift mechanism. I would appreciate any response. Thank you, I just purchased this in this condition so I am not familiar with these vehicles. Where do I get the socket to remove the bolts holding the driveshaft to the transfer case?

 

[KPT]

I would bet you have a V6. Its 4WD, not AWD. You have the problem described in this thread and this thread will tell you how to fix it:

http://explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=182071

 

[Cobraguy]

Do you have a switch on the radio bezel for 4wd? If so, it's now AWD. AWD models have no switch there and use the same bezel as 2wd.

 

[hopeford]

This is a 4.0 V6, I paid $300 for it so I couldn't pass it up. On the dash you can choose auto, 4 hi, and 4 lo. It doesn't show a 2wd option. I hope this helps, if not let me know any other identifiers and I will check. Thanks again

 

[hopeford]

I think it is the automatic 4WD. The link to the page with the rebuilding process of the 4405 is amazing. I guess I must have the 4405 then?

 

[hopeford]

It definately is a 4405. I found a tag on the transfercase. It isn't the electric motor as it is changing the sound of the grinding when I switch between the selections.