My 97 F150 4x4 V6 has similar symptoms as previous threads when trying to shift back to 2wd. A grinding, bumping sound much like the front hubs and transfer case partially engaged. This has only happened since the cold weather here in Northern Ontario and could be also be tied into the use of the heater?. Anyways on a prior thread I was told to remove the battery cable to reset the computer and this did work till today. The truck will have to go to dealer. Should I be looking at the vacuum switch solenoid and how much $$$ for this repair will I anticipate???

Thanks, Machted

 

Hey matched,

I noticed you have the same type o' F-150. Before taking anyting to dealer, check those damn vacuum lines going from front differential back up to the 2 vavuum solenoids located on the firewall directly behind battery.

I had big hole in the engaging vacuum line, could be that you have a hole or crack in the disengaging vacuum line (red, I think). They both were very brittle so I am going to replace 'em both.

About the heater on & 4x4 problems, I too, read those posts but they didn't point me in the right direction. Hopefully this helps as I know that a truck w/o 4x4 feels like it's been neutered!!!

beowulf

 

You are right about being neutered w/o 4x4 but I can't get mine out. I'll check those lines out.
Thanks, Machted