I took apart my entire knuckle and cleaned and greased everything. Put it all back together. Then the axle was turning with the wheel with the truck on in 2wd. Question is could i have packed to much grease in the 4x4 actuator (between all the rubber rings) for it to not have enough vacuum to move and disengage 4x4? Like the grease is jamming it so to say?

 

I don't like where you decided to jack your truck...

 

I agree next time jack it off the frame behind the front wheel. I dont think that amount of grease will affect it. If your having problems check your vacuum lines.

 

You got lucky your truck didnt slip off that jack.

 

Taking a shot in the dark.... i don't think he jacked his truck up there. I'm hoping he's using it under the control to hold it up or move it into position when he puts the knuckle on.

 

But to answer your question... With the truck off, the axle will turn with the wheel. When you get it all back together crank it up and you'll notice the vacuum builds and it will free spin.

 

Yea i started the truck and the axle still turns with the wheel. I removed the vacuum line with the truck running and there is a good amount of vacuum. I just dont know exactly how much it needs. But i have 2 new actuators and an iwe solenoid ordered.

 

Have you tried testing the actuator with a vacuum pump? You can rent one from AutoZone for a 60 bucks deposit. I had to get a small piece of fuel line to take the place of the line it came with because it is too big. Pump em up and see if you lose vacuum. If you lose a pound over a few minutes its ok. If you start to lose it immediately, then you found your culprit. When you pump em up, your wheels should free spin.

 

Do this ...it may save you some money instead of throwing parts at it ...but its your money... And what about your choice to use your lower control arm as a jack point ??

 

Ok will try that. And what abt it? Ive jacked it up there a million times. Never a sketchy moment and the way my jack coupling is shaped there isnt a chance of it slipping. Its actually less stress on the arm than a tire on sitting on the ground. Ive seen many mechanics lift trucks there.