Explorer 97 4wd autotrac always engaged

[VICTOR Q]

Explorer 97 XLT 4WD Auto Trac system malfunctioning

Everyday I start the engine the 4wd is always engaged, and when I make turns some noises come from the front wheel, the one from the side I am turning in. After the speed gets at about 40 miles, the 4wd disengage, and no more noises when turning come. It engages again when I activate the control on the dash, but again, it ain´t disangage till the speed comes to about 40 miles. 4WD worked OK some days ago for about 3 days, but it started malfunctioning again. Also 4wd high and 4WD Low flashes on the dash for 6 times frequently. The 3 days it worked properly, it did not flashed.

Also when I turn on 4WD Low it rarely comes in, so it keeps working on high, and when low activates it occurs several seconds after turning on the swith on the dash. Again, 4WD low does not disangage so I have to turn off the engine. When 4WD Low does not activate, there is a slightly noise inside the dash by the side of the A/C control, like a relay being activited and desactivated.

Lately I am afraid of damaging the system so I am driving without the 4WD fuse. I have taken the truck to several mechanichs, but they have not found the problem, and the Ford Dealer, the had the truck like 4 days and they did nothing because a lot of cars being repaired.

Please, let me know if you think you know what it could be. I will appreciate that,

Thanks

Victor Quintana

 

[glfredrick]

This is one of the more common experiences that people have with their 97's. It can be one of several things, and I will list them from most simple to most difficult (read that expensive).

First, try disonnecting your battery negative cable for at least 30 minutes. That will reset the main computer in the truck. (I carry the wrench with me in the truck now to do this on a regular basis) That may repair the problem, or it may crop up again. Mine comes back all the time.

Second, change the fluid in the transfer case. Use the best stuff you can find! (It takes tranny fluid) Do this on a pretty regular basis, as once the flud begins to age a bit it seems to loose its lubricity and starts getting grabby. I am going to experiment with synthetic next, but a fluid change always makes it drive much better for about 6 months.

Third, get a GEM module recalibration from Ford. They have a factory service bulletin that shows the mechanic how to re-program the GEM module and this also helps somewhat as it makes it a bit less sensitive to speed diferential.

Fourth, make the "brown wire" switch modification (I have yet to do this, but many say it works -- I don't know how it can really turn off the front wheel drive, becasuse the transfer case has a hard part engagement cam that engages the front end with the speed differential between front and rear driveshaft speeds - but it does basically the same thing as removing the fuse).

Fifth, get a replacement GEM module (controls a LOT of the functions of the truck - from door locks to interior lights to the auto-track functions). This is pricey unless you can get Ford to warranty the part (good luck - I am of a mind that this ought to be a class action leading to a reacall!). The GEM replacement will set you back somewhere around $400.

Sixth, sell the truck to some other hapless indiviual before it costs you more money... (I have not gotten this far -- YET -- but perhaps the next time I have to deal with this will be the last...)

Others will likely have some other ideas... this is what I have done...

 

[cjbarron5]

check your wheel sensors too if one is bad or has a broken wire it could be sending false info to the computer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!