2002 Explorer four wheel drive system

SKYCOWBOY

MEMBER
2002 ALL OTHER MAKES ALL OTHER MODELS

I have a 2002 explorer w/auto 4x4 with 45,500 miles on it. Everytime it gets cold. Lets say below 30 degrees, the four wheel drive engages. The 4x4 High and low lights flash, and also feel binding. I already had the actuator motor replaced on the transfer case. Again, only happens when its cold. Is there a sensor that that engages the four wheel drive when its needed?

4 Replies

LOVESCARS

MECHANIC
359 POSTS

THE BLINKING MEANS IT'S NOT CATCHING HIGH OR LOW I WOULD SUGGEST TRYING HIGH ONLY FIRST.
THESE SETUPS ARE TEMPERATURE SENSITIVE

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Monday, February 27th, 2006 AT 8:40 PM

SKYCOWBOY

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Maybe you misunderstood me. The 4 wheel drive is kicking in automatically, or its trying to. You hear the binding in the drive train like your driving on dry pavement. Only happens when its cold out, when vehicle sits over night. What do you think it can be? Like I said the the actuator was replaced already.

Thanks

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, February 28th, 2006 AT 6:18 PM

LOVESCARS

MECHANIC
359 POSTS

Yes I did misunderstand you! I would suspect the switch?
I have experienced, like I said, the 4x4 will not engage or takes a little longer in cold weather. This causes the lights on the dash to flash (4H-4L).

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, February 28th, 2006 AT 6:39 PM

LOVESCARS

MECHANIC
359 POSTS

I wanted to mention also that the system also has a gem unit that controls or per say is in line with the switch. Depending on the year I can't tell you specifically if your vehicle is equipped I believe you would find it inside the instrument panel.
You may want to have that checked!

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, February 28th, 2006 AT 6:58 PM