When I engage the 4x4 in my 04 Scab, I see the 4x4 light on my dashboard come on, but, when I drive it's clearly in 4x2. A lot of times I have to constantly switch between 4x4 and 4x2 and after about 4-6 times it finally engages. Is there something wrong with my 4x4 transfer case or is it something electrical? I'm really trying to get some advice before I pay some mechanic to diagnose it for me.

 

I had the same problem on my old 2002 Ford Ranger a few years back. The 4x4 Control Module went bad. I ordered one from the dealership and installed it myself. Worked like a charm. Not positive if that is what is wrong with your truck, but it sounds alot like my problem.

 

the switch on the side of the transfer case can go bad or get dirty try to see if you tap it with a hammer litely if that lets it click in and if that does it then try taking it out and cleaning it that is how i have always tested to see if it was the problems on all my fords(f150,rangers)

 

4x4 module under the hood %100

 

^^ Yes, check the IWE solenoid behind the battery.

 

I'll definitely try that. Fallon, NV is a very dusty place afterall...lol. I have to get this problem solved cause it nearly screwed me driving over the mountains in the middle of a snowstorm...=(

 

well I spoke like i new something earlier as my truck was in the shop but I just got it back, same front end noise and have completely replaced every aspect of the 4x4 system and I till have a front end noise. SO MY 0.02 isn't worth ****.

 

Is the noise coming from a hub?

 

Well, my 4x4 ain't making noise. It just doesn't engage like its supposed to.

 

There are a couple of simple checks you can do to see if it's the IWE:

1) Jack one front wheel up when the engine is off and rotate the wheel. If the wheel drive shaft turns, then your locking hubs are working, as they should be engaged when there is no vacuum
2) Then start the engine in 2 wheel drive mode. If your IWE solenoid and vacuum is working correctly, if you rotate the wheel now, the drive shaft should not turn, as the vacuum should have disconnected it at the hub.
3) Now, with the engine running, switch to 4x4. If all is working, the drive shaft should turn when you turn the wheel.

If all this checks out, then at least your IWE solenoid, vacuum hoses, and locking hubs are working, and it could then be related to something with the transfer case.