4x4 works only after battery reset

[Merc]

1998 Ranger 4.0 new to me. So I've read about this scenario multiple times from others but no one ever said what they found wrong. The 4 wheel drive wasn't engaging at all when I got it, turn the switch and nothing happens, no lights nothing (no lights at start-up either). After disconnecting the battery it starts working (and works perfect), then stops again after a few days. I also noticed when it was out the dome light and cargo lights also don't work. I suspect the GEM but it's a F87B-14B205-EE and a hard one to find. Has anyone had this problem and fixed it?

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

Yes, its mostly likely the GEM

1998 to 2000 Rangers also used GEM for speedometer

Ford part numbers break down like this
F87B-14B205-EE
F8 = F is 199 + 8 = 1998, 1996 was F6
7 = Ranger or Mazda B-series
B = department thats responsible for it

14B205 = this is the actual part number but for any year and pretty much any model of Ford

EE = revision number, can also be software loaded at factory

BUT........................................
In 1999 Ford changed the first 4 "pre-numbers", in Rangers
X = 1999
Y = 2000
1 = 2001
ect....

L5 = Ranger

So 1999 GEM would be XL5T-14B205, the "T" means not assigned
2000 GEM YL5T-14B205

Any of these 3 years will work, 1998-2000
Also Mazda B-series of the same years would work

Engine size doesn't matter, or sub-model
4WD does matter, of course
Also power windows and door locks with keyless entry matters

GEM is not matched to any thing else, no VIN or other issues in swapping it out

 

[Merc]

Thanks. It comes down to trying to figure out the 1999 and 2000 part number last 2 letters that will match my non power windows and locks. I've read where guys have tried other years and the speedo went wacky. Is there anybody that has successfully swapped in a XL5T or YL5T unit into a 1998 ranger? All I ever see is people saying it didn't work. (I'm guessing that's because for those who it worked, they were happy and had nothing to say afterwards.) Does anybody have an interchange list of the last 2 letters?

 

[RonD]

Yes, you have to stay in the 1998-2000 years for speedo, and if you have close to stock size tires it will work fine, but they can be programmed/calibrated, in the vehicle, for new tire size

If you don't have power group(windows/locks) then I wouldn't worry about suffix/revision too much
Just need to match 4WD

Wiper/washer, interior(dome) lights, door ajar light, seatbelt light, "key in ignition" chime, "head lights on" chime, battery saver relay, are all thats left and thats pretty much standard on all Rangers in those years