Front wheels not engaging

[Perry75]

2000 explorer no 4x4 light on dash is on transfer case engaged

 

[Vic_Ferrari2002]

probably the shift motor needs taken apart and cleaned. In any event, take the shift motor off the back of the trans case and shift into 4wd by hand. 4hi and 4lo position should be marked on the trans case.

 

[drdoom]

Shift motor is only used for shifting in and out of low range, front driveshaft is engaged via electromagnet.

 

[gatzdon]

I would pull the DTC's using Forscan Lite. If the front wheels aren't engaging, there should be a DTC that could give you a hint.