Sounds like the GEM is bad

 

What is the GEM?

 

It's the relays and computers that control 4x4... I have probably replaced 3 on those in the last 2 months for people. It's located behind the inside fuse block

 

They run about $100 and they are year make and model specific. A 97 4.6 4x4 will not work in a 98 4.6 4x4. I learned that the hard way by going through some number of them before I called ford and inquired.

 

Ok cool I'll check it out. How do I tell if it's bad? I have a multimeter? Is the only place to get one a ford dealer?

 

eBay...just make sure you get he right one...if your concerned then ford. If you turn the switch and you hear no relay clicks and the dash doesn't show 4x4... And fuses are good. It's prol the gem

 

That's exactly the problem I am having.

Thanks!

 

So something that covers a range of trucks won't work? Like this for example?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-...Q5fAccessories

Is there a way I can test the GEM to make sure? It's a pricey part.

 

I am also having problems with the 4x4 function. I have a 1995 F150 Eddie Bauer edition. The switch seems to work, I hear the relay click and 4x4 engages, but the switch light doesn't light up nor does the dash light. Could the Gem module be responsible for this as well?

 

Does the part show your model year and trim? F75B-14B205-AC is what the eBay add shows. The actual part number is 14B205. The prefix is supposed to show where it was manufactured. I've forgotten what the AC is for.

davelar3212 - My truck is a 2002. 4x4 seems to be working just fine. Nothing lights up on the switch **** when engaged, however, the 4x4 light by my guages does light up. The lights above the switch **** should come on when you turn on the headlights. Also, the selector bar on the **** glows in the dark (or has a backlight).

Not sure how different the 2002 from the 1995.