Neutral tow switch on a 2002 XLT.

[banjo Rick]

Just joined your group in hopes of learning more about this 2002 Explorer XLT.
I just purchased it (as now 2nd owner) with 127,000 miles. I bought this because it was previously a tow vehicle behind an RV with 4 wheels on the ground. As a 4WD automatic, It requires a "Neutral Tow Switch" installed (Which it has).
My question is simple. How does it function what does it do? Is there anything I need to do different, other than look at it and say 'yep there it is!" I am hoping it is just "plug and play" and the plug part is complete. There are no instructions. I went to the local Ford Dealer, They discontinued the part but listed a simple diagram. They were clueless on what it does or did. Even though it looks cute under the dash, I am concerned i can still burn out the tranny for not If you can answer this you deserve a trophy

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've moved your thread into the towing section.

 

[Fredness]

My understanding it is 4x4 Auto only, and it puts the transfer case in "neutral" - disconnecting the transmission from the driveline. Since the tailshaft doesn't spin, there is no need for lubrication (from the torque converter turning the pump).
It's something like pressing and holding the brake while selecting (and holding) the 4x4 switch until the "Neutral Tow" light comes on.
I believe it was a dash light, LED and a PCM flash.
Hope this helps...

 

[syntst]

The neutral tow light is just an indicator that the transfer case is in neutral.
The steps to do this are:
1. Hook up the vehicle to the motorhome
2. While the engine is running put the transmission in neutral
3. Without applying the brakes turn the key back one position to off - not lock
4. The light will flash
5. Press the brake pedal and the 4X4 Auto button at the same time
6. The light will start to flash - once it stops and stays on the transfer case is in neutral.
7. The light will stay on if the key position is as forward as possible in the off setting - if it's in the full back position the light will turn off after about 20 seconds (like the dome light).
8. In either position the transfer case is in neutral.
I like to keep mine on.
To take the transfer case out of neutral just press on the brake and move the key to the on position and then shift the trnasmission back to park - the light will go off.