I am currently looking into purchasing a newer truck. I initially was looking at something with a manual transfer case but have found something that looks promising but has electronic 4x4 shifting with a **** on the dash.

The truck is a 1999 with the 5.4 and 250 000 km. My question is how reliable is the electronic 4x4 shift in a truck of this age?
Any common problems with the electronic system?
When going to look at this truck is there any good way to test the 4x4?


Also as a side note I have never owned a 1997-2003 f150 is there anything to pay special attention too while shopping/ looking at one?

Thanks in advance for any help

 

the electronic 4x4 system isn't anything to worry about. The only added point of failure is a motor on the transfer case and they don't go bad often. As far as testing the 4x4 system if it goes both into and out of 4x4 then you should be fine. Keep in mind you may have to be in N or P for 4 Low to engage and you can shift into 4 High while moving up to 55 mph if i recall correctly. The main failure point in our 4x4 systems are vacuum related since the system uses vacuum to engage the front axle. I'll let the 5.4 guys comment on the engine.

-Kirk

 

What does the vacuum connect to?

 

Vacuum goes to two shift solenoids on the firewall behind the battery. These solenoids send vacuum to the front axle vacuum actuator. Which as the name implies engages the front axle...

-Kirk

 

Yup 55 mph in 4Hi neutral and stopped for 4 lo and they only disengage while going straight. Very little common issues with motors ( just plug blowouts ) but that's from the plugs not being torqued high enough. My 2003 5.4 has 256,000 miles on it without an issue. Jbrew has 320,000 miles I believe in his 97 5.4 on the original everything ( motor trans axles etc.. ) very reliable trucks.

 

Thanks for the replies. If there is a vacuum issue is that a costly repair? Also is there anything that can be done to the vacuum actuator system as preventive maintenance?

 

I had a 92 with electronic 4x4 button, never failed me in the 6 years I had it

 

If the vacuum stops get a cable lock system. It's locks the front diff and you don't have to work about the solenoids.

 

Thanks for all the help. I feel better about the electronic shifting system and will go ahead with trying to buy this one. Thanks again.

 

http://4x4posi-lok.com/ look here for your truck