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Ford Ranger 4 wheel drive stopped working

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FlameOut

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
I know it's a long shot, and probably a sin to post about a ford (and believe me, this is the LAST ford I will ever own - I've never had one that wasn't problems)

I have a 2000 Ranger XLT , 77,000 miles, 4.0 engine, 5 speed auto, and up until now, the 4 wheel drive worked great. Now when I try to engage (with the dash switch) all I hear are 5 faint clicks behind the switch, and the dash light never comes on. The dash lights are ok, so that isn't the problem, and it definitely isn't engaging.

Just was just hoping someone here may have encountered the same problem and it was something simple to correct. The solenoid is easy to get to, but I don't want to just start changing parts without being sure. This truck is pretty much useless in the winter without 4 wheel drive working. Any suggestions other than taking it to the junk yard?
 
#2 ·
My son's Ranger did the same thing just a few months ago and I was able to fix it in about 2-1/2 hours with some helpful hints from a web site that Highway Star directed me to. It's still working fine. Below is the link to the thread. Good Luck :thumbsup:

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=333545
 
#3 ·
I found a thread on the fix I did that have pictures... The one thing he didn't mention was that when you remove the assembly from the gear case theres a wire that you'll need to cut if you want to work on the motor at your bench. Otherwise you'll either have to figure out how to pry a small red retainer out of the electrical pin connector to remove the wire from the connector; or work on it under the truck. I choose to cut the wire and work on it at my bench. I just used a crimp connector and heat shrink when I reinstalled it.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=123542
http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/TCaseshiftmotor.htm
It's easier than it looks and like I said, only took a couple hours.
 
Discussion starter · #4 ·
Don, thanks for those links. All this time I was calling it a solenoid, and wondering why I couldn't find the part at any parts stored. After seeing it's called a "shift motor" or "transfer case motor" I was able to find it (for $130!!) I'm still trying to make sure that is the problem though. I removed it from the truck (Didn't have that wire that needed cut though??)

I'm trying now to make sure I actually have power going to that motor, but so far haven't had much luck, (with the 12 wires in that plug, I don't know what is what)
 
#5 ·
When I worked at a Ford Dealer Explorers and Rangers came in like crazy during the first snow with 4x4 problems. The electric motors need to be exercised once a month to make sure they stay in good shape. When you are on a gravel road, in the grass or on dirt you need to engage the 4wd. If you don't use it you lose it.
 
#6 ·
FlameOut said:
Don, thanks for those links. All this time I was calling it a solenoid, and wondering why I couldn't find the part at any parts stored. After seeing it's called a "shift motor" or "transfer case motor" I was able to find it (for $130!!) I'm still trying to make sure that is the problem though. I removed it from the truck (Didn't have that wire that needed cut though??)

I'm trying now to make sure I actually have power going to that motor, but so far haven't had much luck, (with the 12 wires in that plug, I don't know what is what)
Click to expand...
They may have changed the design on the wires from the year we have to the 2000 model. It would only make sense, you shouldn't have to cut a wire like that to service it. If I were you, I'd try the clean up the motor and make sure the rubber tube is in place (mine was missing all together) and see if it'll work before blowing $130.00 on a new one. But that's just me, save money to spend it on my Chevelle :D
 
#7 ·
There are two wires going to the shift motor that either supply power or ground depending on either a shift into 4x4 or 2wd . One is orange the other is yellow. The relays that control them are behind the dash. They are controlled by the GEM module. There are 4 sensors in the shift motor that tell the GEM module what position the transfer case is in. The most common problem is one of the sensors is bad so the module wont shift the motor. Another problem is as stated the motors need to be used once in a while. You could have someone turn the switch for youwhile gently tapping on the motor, since you do hear some clicking the sensors may be ok and the motor is just stuck if it does shift then you can either shift the crap out of it to clean the motor or replace it. I have alot more info if you need it...wont tell you how I know this....but I do fix alot of them...
 
Discussion starter · #8 ·
The problem was indeed the shift motor. I found one at Advanceauto for $122, and with the code LC123, was able to get it for around $85. Was about a 10 minute job to replace and I now once again have working 4 wheel drive. Thanks for all of the help :thumbsup::beers:
 
#9 ·
FlameOut said:
I know it's a long shot, and probably a sin to post about a ford (and believe me, this is the LAST ford I will ever own - I've never had one that wasn't problems)
Click to expand...
This thread is good info if this issue applies to my '05 Ranger as well. Athough luckily I have no problems at over 100K miles. As far as Fords go, 94-97 Powerstrokes were one of the best trucks ever made in my opinion, and are in high demand here and command a premium price. They hold their value incredibly well. Drawback is cost of parts but a small price to pay over the course of 200K and more miles. Even the 351 powered models are still popular here.
 
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Raven1
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