Help! 4x4 issue, have to make judgment call in 3 hours

[ryan2022]

Hi guys,

I'm dealing with an issue in 4X4 and trying to figure out if I should buy this Ranger at a dealer. I'd like to get out from under this deal this afternoon, and am having trouble with the Truck that I'll be selling.

I can't in good conscious sell this truck without properly working 4x4 and if it means a transfer case swap, I don't think I'll be selling it.....even though its been a horrible POS.

When I put the truck in 4Hi, it kicks and bucks on gravel, I learned recently that when it goes into 4 LOW it runs fine.

This rules out the front diff, drive shaft, CV joints t-case chain. etc... It's going to be either the shift motor or the t-case shift fork.

Have anyone had this? Any thoughts?

I pulled the motor apart and cleaned it up....same thing. The lights on the dash work fine and all is well otherwise now....what is this bucking?

 

[adsm08]

A shift motor won't do that.

 

[Andy D]

Not knowing the particulars , the Rat doesn't like 4 high except where there is some slip in what it is driving on. Hard pan roads may not provide enough give for the 4wd. I would make sure that there is mercon in it and drive it to the dlr in 2 wheel drive.

 

[RonD]

Passed deadline but maybe it is a front axle speed issue which you don't have in 4low or 2WD.

Did it jump and buck under 10mph in 4hi, or just over 20, 30mph?

 

[ryan2022]

Passed deadline but maybe it is a front axle speed issue which you don't have in 4low or 2WD.

Did it jump and buck under 10mph in 4hi, or just over 20, 30mph?

Ok, thanks a ton guys.

I think I'm going to stick with the purchase. I'm fixing the ranger and selling it privately when I have it ironed out.

That's interesting, I think it was once I was rolling and up to speed. The road definitely was hard packed.....maybe you're on to something.

I should try sand or mud. Very weird.