1987 Chevy S-10 4x4 wont engage. HELP!

1987 CHEVROLET S-10
Avatar
CLAPPER33
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Drive Train Axles Bearings problem
1987 Chevy S-10 6 cyl Four Wheel Drive Manual

87 s10, 4x4 wont engage, this is what I have figured out so far,.... the 4wd actuator isnt getting a vacuum to lock the hubs, so i took a vacuum brake bleeder and hooked it to the actuator and the 4wd works perfect, but the 4h 4L indicator lights dont work, and never have. so where do i start? the switch for the console lights? some sort of vac switch? vac pump? something else? any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Feb 10, 2010 at 4:04 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
TOOOMANYTOYS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 513 POSTS
I would test the switch. If its not lighting up it may have an open. Test to see if your getting 12 volts to the switch if so I would see about finding a switch to swap out. Maybe from a junk yard or something.
Feb 10, 2010 at 4:07 PM
Avatar
CLAPPER33
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
ok, how do i test the switch? I took the floor console panel off and there are 2 connectors to the panel indicator lights. the one on the left im assuming is the feed or power, it has 3 wires, the other connector on the right goes from the 2h 4h N 4L lights to the switch. so just check for power on the left connector that feeds it or check at the switch? how would I do that? or could it be as simple as a fuse? Thanks.
Feb 10, 2010 at 5:21 PM
Avatar
TOOOMANYTOYS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 513 POSTS
Floor console? Is this truck push button fourwheel drive, or do you have to push a lever? Normally the push button stlye is mounted on the dash.
Feb 10, 2010 at 6:59 PM
Avatar
CLAPPER33
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
its not push button, its a 1987. it has a lever mounted in the floor console next to the shifter (5 speed)
Feb 10, 2010 at 8:08 PM
Avatar
TOOOMANYTOYS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 513 POSTS
I'm sorry thought it was electronic. In that case pull the front differential actuator out. And see if it moves when you select 4 wheel drive. Most likely actutaor is sticking. Or you have a vacuum leak.
Feb 11, 2010 at 1:21 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.