I've read through a few threads on the IWE problems/solutions and watched some YouTube videos.

I jacked up the front end, engine off, spun each wheel and the IWE actuators are indeed engaged (aka no vacuum).
Cranked the truck, unplugged both lines from the solenoid and connected them to each other (bypassing the solenoid completely). Both wheels spin free in an IWE disengaged manner (vacuum present). Which tells me the lines and IWEs themselves are good. Is the solenoid my problem? Thought I'd get some others opinions.
I also disconnected just the line that feeds the actuators from the solenoid and I feel no vacuum at the solenoid (with engine running).

Am I understanding that if the solenoid is disconnected electronically that it just leaves the IWE actuators engaged at all times? Seems like I've read that Fords ultimate fix is to just cap the lines, which leaves the actuators engaged 100% of the time forever???

 

Depending upon the year model of the truck, the transmission control module does not sent the electrical signal to the solonid to pass vacuum until the truck has been driven for 1/2 mile, this is to give time for the vacuum in the tank to build to full potential. You can use jumper wires to supply 12v and ground to the solonoid to see if it will pass gass.

So go drive the truck for a mile, then jack the wheels up without shutting off the engine and see if the solonoid passes gas now.

 

Need more info, truck year, trim package, and what is the problem? Everything described sounds normal.
The capping of the lines is relating to the TOD, trucks with 4A. They don't do that with the ESOF transfer case, trucks without 4A.

 

Drove to work this morning, before shutting the engine off I popped the hood and pulled the vacuum line of the solenoid that leads to the IWE. I could feel vacuum at the solenoid, thus it is functioning normally. I was just curious how the system was supposed to work and wanted to make sure mine was functioning as should. I will test the free wheeling in the next couple days after driving home and jacking it up and checking before shutting off engine. Appreciate the info.

 

Gotcha! Yepper, sounds like you have an understanding of how it works. Any troubles, get back on here, we'll help you out.