Hi guys, 2008 Ford F-150 I had my front wheels off the ground today, engine running, truck was in 2 wheel drive was able to spin the tires freely, when 4wd was engaged I could not spin the front tires,what does this mean? Is my 4 wheel drive working?

 

Thats what it's supposed to do. It sounds like your system is working properly.

 

can you show me pics it?

 

Pics of a wheel not turning?

 

I don't have pictures but when 4Wd is engaged the front tires only turn about a 1/4 of the way then lock, same on both sides, in 2wd they spin freely by hand

 

Your front wheels will not turn in 4wd when they are off the ground. This is because they are locked to your transfer case which is engaged to the transmission which is locked in park. (Just as your rear wheels will not turn when off the ground when the transmission is in gear or park.)

In 2wd the front wheels are no longer locked to the drive axles so they will spin freely.

The reason you get a partial turn is taking up the play in the drive axles, front differential, etc. If you look under the wheel well when you're turning while locked in 4wd, you'll see the axle start to turn. When in 2wd you'll see the axle stay still.

WAD - Working As Designed.

 

If I wanted to see wheels not turning while the engine was going I'd buy a Chevy.

 

Now THAT is some funny stuff right there!