1993 ranger 4x4 control module

hunter29078 · Jul 27, 2015

Where is it located on a regular cab xlt 4.0? I am wanting to test everything and I am reading the 4x4 diagnosis in the tech section of this site. My understanding is that,

The 4x4 switch goes to the GEM

and from there goes to the transfer case engagement switch.

Once the transfer case has shifted to the correct position the light on the switch will come on.

Once the front axle starts turning it will engage the hubs(if equipped with auto hubs)

So if the front axle is not engaging it would have to be the switch, GEM, or engagement switch given the fuses are good and everything is getting power.

Also i have read there are 2 fuses for the 4wd and a few for the GEM. Where are the GEM ones located?

Thanks.

RonD · Jul 27, 2015

1993 doesn't have GEM, this module was added in late '90's

4WD module would be behind drivers seat

read here on the 1994 and older 4x4 module: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/4wd_control_module.html

Shift motor on transfer case often just needs to be cleaned because of disuse, an electric motor works when the brushes are energized and are making contact with the rotor, since shift motor might sit in one position for many months the brushes may not have good contact so when you do need shift motor to work it doesn't.
A few taps with a hammer or other heavy object(rock) on the shift motor will often loosen the brushes and get shift motor working, temporarily, temporarily is the key word there.

It is best to shift into 4WD and 4Lo once a month to keep motor working, you don't have to drive in 4WD you just need to get the shift motor turning to keep good connections inside, although driving a bit can be fun

Good read here on cleaning shift motor: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/TCaseshiftmotor.shtml

Shift motor not working is the more common issue on the older system, module rarely fails, not never but rarely.

Next more common issue is the Auto-hubs, if you get a "clicking noise" then hub is not engaging or disengaging fully.
They can be cleaned as well, they should NOT be packed with grease, a light coating of grease, oil or ATF is best so they can move to engage and disengage.
Grease belongs in the wheel bearings

Hubs will engage when front axle turns when powered by transfer case
To disengage hubs front axle must be unpowered(2WD) and then truck should be backed up for a few feet, and as much as 50 ft

hunter29078 · Jul 28, 2015

Got under there today. Can feel the shift motor trying to shift just not going into gear. Going to take it off and clean it. When shifting to 4lo the truck has to be in nuetral? Does it have to be in 4hi before the shift or will it go from 2wd to 4lo?

RonD · Jul 31, 2015

hunter29078 said:
Got under there today. Can feel the shift motor trying to shift just not going into gear. Going to take it off and clean it. When shifting to 4lo the truck has to be in nuetral? Does it have to be in 4hi before the shift or will it go from 2wd to 4lo?

Yes, neutral, and clutch pedal in or foot on the brake(automatic)
Also speedo at 0mph

Yes, you can switch directly to 4lo

1993 ranger 4x4 control module

hunter29078

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RonD

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