Transfer Case problem...

[johnnydangerous]

Hey folks new around here. Having a little trouble with the electronic shift transfer case. The lights on the dash say its in four wheel low but its not actually in four-by. or at least not engaged. suggestions?? Thanks.

 

[MrShorty]

If the lights on the dash say it's in 4 low, are you getting the low range gear reduction? If yes, then the problem isn't likely in the transfer case, but more likely in the front drivetrain (especially autolocking hubs if still equipped). If there's no discernible difference in gear ratio, then the problem is in the transfer case shift mechanism.

 

[johnnydangerous]

No there is no gear reduction. I noticed that imediately still rear wheel only and no reduction. however would it be the module or the solinoid itself?? Also how difficult or expencive would it be to replace the hubs as i hate autolocks anyway??

 

[MrShorty]

Hard to give a complete and thorough diagnosis over the internet without more information.

It seems that most people who have trouble with the shift motor don't get the indicator light to light up like you're getting. The indicator light is triggered at the shift motor. A couple of scenarios:

1) The shift motor is turning but, for whatever reason, the shift fork is broken or otherwise unable to perform the shift. From what I understand, the shift fork on these has plastic tips. While it seems rare, it isn't unheard of for the shift fork to go bad and not be able to shift.
2) The shift motor is not turning, but the indicator switches think it has turned. Others who are more familiar with the shift motor might be able to explain exactly how this occurs.
3) Some other electrical fault is causing the indicator lights to come on when told to go into 4H/4L.

I think at this point, the first couple of things I would do would be to get under there and see if the shift motor is doing anything, and then pull the shift motor off and see if I could manually shift the t-case (by rotating the shaft by hand). These two things should help to see if the problem is something mechanical in the t-case or something in the electronic shift mechanism.

 

[johnnydangerous]

well i am going to try messing around with it today and go to the scrap yard and pick up another module and see if thats the problem i would like to have it working before the snow comes and thats not long off LOL!