4x4 Doesn't Engage (2008 Fx4)

[HitchHiker]

I'm unable to get my Ranger into 4x4. When I turn the switch, I hear the clicking of a relay behind the dash. It clicks a couple of time every few seconds until it stops, and the vehicle is still not in 4x4. Is there a known fix for this problem?

Thank you

 

[Uncle Gump]

Sounds like your shift motor is kaput. They should really be exercised frequently.

There are some diagnostics here.

Transmission, Transfer Case & Driveshaft - The Ranger Station

DISCLAIMER: Activities and vehicle modifications appearing or described at The Ranger Station and it’s pages may be potentially dangerous. We do not endorse any such activity for others or recommend it to any particular person – we simply describe … Continued

www.therangerstation.com

 

[HitchHiker]

I've seen posts here and elsewhere about replacing the electronic shifter with a manual one. Is that any kind of plausible option? I don't know how manual transfer cases work for the Ranger, but I have heard that for Jeeps the manual shifter still requires power to shift into 4wd.

I only ask about a manual shifter because if I need to replace the electric one, it could be worth looking at something more reliable.

 

[HitchHiker]

Looking at the documentation you linked, it looks like the shift motor is a brushed DC electric motor. Those are notoriously unreliable. Are there any brushless aftermarket alternatives? That seems like something that there would be a market for.

 

[Uncle Gump]

Many folks do a little disassembly and clean them. Like I said cycling that motor keeps them clean and functioning.

Manual shift is an option... requires a new t case and linkage.

They did make a "Shiftster" at one time... rare to find anymore. It would replace the motor and required you to crawl under and turn the knob to shift it.

I have one i travel with incase of motor failure during an outing.