4x4 not working in my 1993 Ford ranger xlt manual v6 4.0L

[Richard869]

My 4wd does not work whatsoever. The only time the 4x4 orange light is illuminated is when I first start the truck and it does it’s test cycle but even then it doesn’t always light up. I replaced the shift motor and even bought a new 4x4 switch off eBay. I can’t seem to figure out what the issue is.

 

[Curious Hound]

Often, through lack of use, the brushes and contacts in the motor gearbox get corroded and dirty. These are what tells the controller what position your transfer case is in. Also, if I recall correctly, there are 2 different fuses to check. One for the controller and one for motor power. There is a pretty good troubleshooting article in our tech library to help you troubleshoot this.

Ford Ranger 4x4 Module Diagnosis (1994 & Older) - The Ranger Station

By Chris1044 If your 4WD Ranger has a push button 4wd system (automatic, no manual lever), than it’s going to have a 4WD Shift Module mounted somewhere in the cab. The photo above shows one mounted under the jumpseat … Continued

www.therangerstation.com

 

[rumblecloud]

Might wanna check the connector down by the motor and make sure it's all clean and tidy. If you replaced the motor, chance are it's ok, but it won't hurt to check. I've gone through motor replacement a couple of times. As Eric says, make sure you cyle it regularly to keep it functioning.

It looks like you still have auto locking hubs? How is that possible on a '93? Nice looking truck BTW.

Welcome to TRS.

 

[sgtsandman]

If all that checks out, time to chase wires and make sure there isn’t a break in one of them. It could be a corroded terminal in a connector too. So, don’t over look that.

 

[bobbywalter]

Or the control module friction points wires are corroded.. just work them on and off a few times and some contact cleaner

 

[Richard869]

Thanks for the tips everyone, I'll let you know what I find out

 

[Richard869]

Update;
I took a chance and ordered a transfer case control module off of ebay, and unplugged the old and plugged in the new one and now my 4x4 is back. I did all the testing according to this article but it was showing it was getting power to the module but the module wasn't sending power to the transfer case shift motor to engage the 4wd. Thank you everyone who helped!

Ford Ranger 4x4 Module Diagnosis (1994 & Older) - The Ranger Station