I can not get the 4x4 to engage.My 4x4 shifter works fine but what ever activates the locking system doesn't seam to be workingMy truck is a 3/4 tonDiesel with an automatic transmission. I have a Clinton manual but it doesn't show anything on the engaging system. Does anyone know if it is an electric or vacumn engager and where might it be located. Thismay help me insolving the problem.

 

what year?..manual 4x4 shifter?

 

Argon
It is a 1994
Thanks

 

It really needs to be diagnosed with a test lite..but 2 most likely causes..

the front actuator...its a gas-powered,electric controlled actuator that actually does the engaging.its easy to change...

back on the transfer case is a switch that sends power TO that actuator when you shift...they go bad as well.

 

Thanks Argon
I will get my Fluke out and check wires. Have you ever changed this system over to a manual lock with a cable to engage the front axle.

 

no...I don't see how that would be done without major mechanical changes.......the front axle tube....the actuator must extend to connect the axles to the differential

 

Im haveing close to the same issue with mine...
The actuator motor islocated near center on the front axel...
just unplug the wire conector and unscrew it..
what I tried was....once itis unscrewed, connect it back up and with the egnition in the ON postition, shift the lever to 4x4...you should hear it engage the actuator motor, you can also go and see that the piston should be fully out...
Mind you I did that with mine, the piston comes out...but wheni ts in the truck, and I put it in 4x4, it seems to engage for a few feet, then something is not keeping it engaged???
Very baffling......
They do sell a procuct that manually engages the piston in the front axel...I believe its around $200.00..
Not sure what its called though..would save all the hassel of all that darn electrical stuff.
If you do find the problem, please let me know, as my problem may be the same.
good luck.
Steveman