Electronic shift transfer case problem

[Trucker mike]

I have a 1986 Ranger STX with shift on the fly. I can't get it to do anything in four wheel drive. Electronic shift is new to me and I am asking for any help to figure it out.
First off I saved the ranger from a neighbor where it has been parked for 8 years. The fuel pump was hot wired to run and the ecm was bad and I replaced it. One example to give you an idea what shape its in.
When I turn on the ignition the shift on the fly light in the 4x4 button comes on for a few seconds and that's the only life I've seen so far. When I push the 4x4 button nothing happens. I tried everything to get to shift, putting on the parking break, shifted in neutral, and foot on and off of break pedal.
I am trying to keep from buying a lot of parts and blindly trowing them at it.
Are there any way to check it with a multi meter or test light before spending money?
If I can't get the electronic shifter working I saw a video on YouTube of a electronic to manual shifter conversion that used a cable linkage to the controller. Which I haven't found any information on the conversion kit.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

If all else fails there is "the Shiftster". I own one and it is good quality, but you have to crawl under the truck to shift it. But first I would check the "How to Tech" section, it's at the top of every page 4th button from the left.

 

[bobbywalter]

with power at the switch light, start with disconnecting the plug at the t case and inspecting and cleaning it.

i assume you checked the fuses

the grounds

and if it actually has a shift module in it and connected.

 

[Curious Hound]

+1 on reading the troubleshooting article in the How To Tech section. It is very well written and gives you a methodical, thorough system checkout for electric shift. It works.