CV joints

[Sherwoodpstarbird]

I am having an issue out of the front end of my 2003 XLT 4x4. When I turn in either direction the front end binds up in 2 wheel drive. I have been thinking its a CV joint issue but didn't want to take it all apart and that not be the issue.

Does anyone have experience with this issue?

 

[Number4]

You are probably experiencing the 4x4 engaging. It does this at low speed, hard turns.

I don't know if the '03 had a separate 4x module, like the '02's or if it's in the PCM. If its in the PCM, there may be an update available at your local dealer that will fix it.

 

[Sherwoodpstarbird]

You are probably experiencing the 4x4 engaging. It does this at low speed, hard turns.

I don't know if the '03 had a separate 4x module, like the '02's or if it's in the PCM. If its in the PCM, there may be an update available at your local dealer that will fix it.

Thank for that info. I will contact my local dealer to explorer that option.

 

[Number Twelve]

There is also the, "Brown Wire Mod". You can put a switch in series with the electrical command to go into 4WD. One wire is all you need to interrupt. I have never had 4WD before I bought this beast, never needed 4WD, we don't have hills or snow in Florida, so I am seriously considering just cutting the brown wire...when the weather cools off.

 

[IPcamper]

When was the last time the fluid was changed in the transfer case? My explorer acted like the 4x4 was slightly engaging on tight turns, a couple of years ago. The transfer case fluid looked nasty. I changed it, ran it for a week and then changed it again, after that it has been fine ever since. I think crud was building up between the clutch plates causing them to bind up little.

 

[Sherwoodpstarbird]

When was the last time the fluid was changed in the transfer case? My explorer acted like the 4x4 was slightly engaging on tight turns, a couple of years ago. The transfer case fluid looked nasty. I changed it, ran it for a week and then changed it again, after that it has been fine ever since. I think crud was building up between the clutch plates causing them to bind up little.

I have not messed with fluids yet. That will happen soon though. I pulled the 16-17 fuses out that control 4 high and 4 low and the problem has not occurred today, I even went to an empty parking lot and did slow circles. I might need a new control module or an update. But the fluids are on the list.

 

[Sherwoodpstarbird]

You are probably experiencing the 4x4 engaging. It does this at low speed, hard turns.

I don't know if the '03 had a separate 4x module, like the '02's or if it's in the PCM. If its in the PCM, there may be an update available at your local dealer that will fix it.

I pulled the fuse and haven't had an issue since, the 4x4 lights flash from time to time. But that's a reminder to find the real fix, not gonna leave the fuses out forever.