So random update. I cut my gray wire w/orange stripe today. Back-story, I just replaced 2 of the 4 tires with a different brand and was concerned that them not all being the same brand would cause issues on an AWD. So figured now would be a good time. Cut the wire. Interestingly though, the "4x4" light will still come on when pressed. I need to somehow test if it really IS, in fact, enabled still.
Update
#2 - It would appear that the light will still come on when "4x4 high" is selected. But "4x4 low" will NOT engage. The light on the switch itself just keeps blinking and you can hear a relay continually clicking under the dash trying to engage.
So, for now, it would appear that it's working. Just need to get an in-line switch now. Heading to Disneyland Saturday morning so fingers crossed nothing fry's on the way there