Hey guys ive used this site for a long time for references when working on my trucks, but this is my first time posting. So i purchased a 1998 3.0 v6 4x4 about 2 months ago. Ive never had 4x4 before and was curious if it actually works. So my stepdad had me put it in 4 low and drive in reverse while chained to a tree. Back tires spun, front tires did not. Thought that was weird. So i put it in 4x2 and tried it again. The truck stalled and wouldnt start again for about 45 minutes. Ive never had a problem witj it starting before this. It finally started like normal, i went home and it sat for about 3 hours and then when i try to start it again it will not start. It turns over. My stepdad was thinking that maybe timing belt slipped, but once it restarted the first time it was running too good to be out of time. Any ideas?

 

That is weird, also, not a good way to check if 4x4 is engaging.

Are you out of fuel?
Have you checked spark?
Any warning lights?
Does it crank, but not run?

 

You have a older truck, the vibrations from pulling against a tree may have knocked a corroded connector loose.

Double check all the connections and look for anything obvious.

If still no joy you will have to do some simple diagnostics to find out what your missing that is keeping the truck from starting.

Most more information and we can help