Ranger Shift Motor Turns, But Stops Before Going Into 4H

[Ollie Octopus]

I have a 1993 Ford Ranger 4x4. I have replaced the shift motor, the computer-controller, and the speed sensor. When I push the 4x4 H switch, the motor will turn about 3/4 of the way there but stops short of going into gear. When I push 4x4 L switch it stays the same place. I have hooked up the wiring with the shift motor off the transfer case where I can watch the motor position while my wife pushes the buttons. The lights light up correctly and when I push the 4x4 H switch again the motor returns to the 2 wheel position. Help! This thing is driving me nuts.

 

[Mr. Tarkanian]

I have a 1993 Ford Ranger 4x4. I have replaced the shift motor, the computer-controller, and the speed sensor. When I push the 4x4 H switch, the motor will turn about 3/4 of the way there but stops short of going into gear. When I push 4x4 L switch it stays the same place. I have hooked up the wiring with the shift motor off the transfer case where I can watch the motor position while my wife pushes the buttons. The lights light up correctly and when I push the 4x4 H switch again the motor returns to the 2 wheel position. Help! This thing is driving me nuts.

Do the dash lights flash or blink? Also, the trans should be in neutral and the brake pedal depressed.

I went through this a week ago, I know how frustrating it can be. Best of luck.

 

[Ollie Octopus]

Mr. Tarkanian: The lights work like they are supposed to, the trans is in neutral, but I'm not sure about the brake pedal. This Ranger has an auto transmission. The shift motor works (unbolted but wiring hooked up) and I could watch the rotation of the shift motor not going all the way to 4H. It stays the same place when I try to go into 4L. Thanks for responding. Ollie