Was looking online and someone was selling a New GEM for the 97/98 F150 4x4 with the electronic switch for 4x4. Anyways, he said it was new and had the most recent update.

So I have read on here that they require programming and when contacting them he mentioned most of the units do not get programmed but some do require it.

I know my dealer ship will not tell me if my unit would need this or not. Is there a way to tell by the Vin on my own before purchasing one.

Even if I go through the dealer, would a new unit have all the programming done?

Going to replace it myself, or hope too.

Thanks.