1997 Ford F-150 4WD won't work

Tiny
JASONSTITH
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 FORD F-150
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 97,800 MILES
A while ago my 4wd would only work sometimes. Now it doesn't work at all. I found out that there is an actuator that you can zip tie down when you need to put it in 4wd. I think the problem is that the hubs won't lock, because they're vacuum actuated. Do you think I have a vacuum leak somewhere that might be causing this? Would it be hard to install manual locking hubs?
Tuesday, July 20th, 2010 AT 11:58 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
It could be either of the two. If you have electric shift 4wd, start by checking if the actuator on the transfer case is getting power. If it is, remove the actuator and confirm that it is working. If that is okay, then you most likely have a vacuum leak to the front axle.

Check that and let me know what you find.
Joe
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Monday, April 12th, 2021 AT 11:14 AM
Tiny
JASONSTITH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The actuator is working. If it is depressed after I use the switch to engage the 4wd then the 4wd does work.
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Monday, April 12th, 2021 AT 11:14 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Check for vacuum leaks at the front axle. If the actuator is good, then the axle must not be engaging.
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Monday, April 12th, 2021 AT 11:14 AM

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