I have been noticing some noise coming from the front end, sounds like a whirling noise. I noticed some posts that suggested the IWE's or the solenoid. I put the truck up on jacks and sure enough when i spin the tires in two wheel drive the IWE shafts are spinning on both sides. Not normal right? Would this most likely be a bad soleniod or both IWE's are bad. I don't want to to do damage to the system so any advice would be helpful. I wanted to swap out the solenoid first but I was wondering if there was a way to test it first. I went to a local parts store and could not find the solenoid so I am going to have to go to a dealer tomorrow.

Please Help!

 

First question: When you had the truck up in the air, was the engine running? The IWE's use vacuum (from the engine) to release. That means they lock up when the solenoide shuts vacuum off, or when you shut the truck off. So, if you didn't have the truck running, both of your IWe's should have bee locked up - allowing you to turn the axles with the wheels.

Second question: If you're hearing a screaching / grinding noise from either front wheel when you're driving, what position is your 4x4 selector switch in?

 

yes I had the engine running and It was on 2 wheel drive

 

Sounds like your solenoid is bad. It also looks like we live in the same town. I have one sitting in the garage that's probably good. PM me and we'll figure something out.

 

yes i live in greece, let me know how much and everything. Otherwize I was just going to go the dealer. I am worried that this has gone on and i have done damage in some way.

 

I'm probably only a few miles away from you - in Charlotte. PM me and I'll get you my phone number.

 

Thak you for the offer of giving me your part but i stopped by dealer and picked one up. Put it in but still did not work, when i jack it up and start it both axles are still moving when in 2 HI!

 

Time to check for vacuum leaks. I printed out a couple of files that will help you track the problem down. Call me.

 

I am having the same prob, I haave an 03 f150 and recently had into dealer because 4x4 was not working, they took apart and said fork was broken so they repaired that. I then took it home and the next morning it started making that same whining/humming noise almost like the axles are engaged but 4x4 is not. I left at dealer for a week and mechanic actually drove home everyday and said njo problems. it is now doing again for about a week and I cannot get to go away, I am guseeing vacuum problem any suggestions??

 

ya guys i am having the same problem with my 04. Please post if any of you have any ideas or figure something out.

 

Ended up I had a bad actuator and a clogged VAC line. Working great now, but not impressed with the whole Iwe system!

 

Give me old school manual transfer case and hubs any time - or the exact opposite - a full time AWD system with a torque sensing center diff.