Stuck in WD Low range!

ironhat · #1 05-28-2006, 04:56 PM

Yikes, I just pulled a shrubbry stump and the ole '97 ext cab, 4.6L won't come out of low range. Turningt the switch doesn't give me the ususal sound of changing between the stops. I don't hear a vacuum leak so I'm suspecting that it's the diaphram. Three Q's:

1. I've gotta drive this to work tomorrow so is there a quick, temp fix to get me back into 2 WD?

2. Where is that diaphram switch located? I'm supposing on the firewall but I guess it could be unde the dash.

3. Is there a visual inspection that will tell me if that's the problem?

I did a search and came up with several hundred hits but you know how that goes and I reeeealy have to get something done ASAP. Sorry for the freakout, folks.
Later,
Chiz

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adrianspeeder · #2 05-28-2006, 08:35 PM

For the ESOF to shift into and out of low range, you must be stopped, foot on brake (the brake lights need to be working), and in neutral (not park or gear).

While your front axle is locked and unlocked by vacuum, your transfer case is shifted and controlled by an electric motor. There are a few electrical parts that can fail though.

Adrianspeeder

ironhat · #3 05-28-2006, 10:13 PM

Simple enough and worth a shot now that the family picnic has wound up.
Thanks,
CHiz

ironhat · #4 05-28-2006, 10:25 PM

Well, Adrianspeeder. I don't know what to say. I checked the brake lights - both good - and started the truck, immediately slipping it into neutral and taking my foot on the brake. The 4x4 and LOW lights didn't come on. It may be that when I backed it downhill into that parking spot when the family started to arrive that I jarred something loose. I'm thinking that it's not necessarily fixed until I can try that function at a more opportune time.
Again, thanks. I'll be saving your post. BTW, I'm in Chambersburg.
Later,
Chiz

ironhat · #5 05-28-2006, 11:01 PM

Subscribing to thread.

adrianspeeder · #6 05-28-2006, 11:22 PM

Glad to see you got it out. Sometimes it can take 10 or so seconds to complete the shift.

All this ESOF foolery is why I like...

As long as my arm is working I get moving in 4x4

I'm outside of middletown.

Adrianspeeder

ironhat · #7 05-28-2006, 11:32 PM

I'm totally with you on that. This is exactly what I feared would eventually happe when I bought this unit on July 04 of 1997. Still, I love my truck!! BTW, I'm in the market for new shocks but don't do any off-roading other than getting to my hunting spot. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Later,
Chiz