I have an 01 Ranger, 4.0 XLT 5 speed with 4WD. Went out in a snow storm and found that the 4 wd would not engage. I have no indication on the instrument panel and no reaction on traction visavis snow and ice. Where do I start? Help!

 

I would put the truck up on jacks and put it into 4x4 to see if all 4 wheels spin. If only back wheels spin then look to see if the front drive cv axels are moving, if yes then hubs are bad. If the cv axel is not moving then shifter motor in t-case is bad. it could be the shifter controller in the cab, lose wires. hopes this helps!

 

He has a live axle, no hubs like a 98-00. check the connections at the tcase and at the switch behind/next to the radio.
shifter motor could be locked up also but if the light isn't coming on either then its probably an electrical fault somewhere.

 

What he said^ when you shift to 4x4 you should hear a small electric motor running. if not after checking fuses and connections I would replace the shift motor, its bolts on to the back of the tcase with 3 bolts, very simple to replace and fairly in expensive.

 

I understand that all the lights should illuminate when the ign switch is turned on. None of these lights come on. At one and only one time this summer, it shifted and then dead again. I can't find any electrical drawings for this system.

 

Your control module is behind the passenger side kick panel.

I said the same issue, turned out the module had went dead.

 

Thanks Guys, I changed out the 4x4 CM this morning and all is right with the world.

 

I found the 4wd 2001 workshop manual on line if anyone needs info.

 

I need the info mine is stuck in 4x4 high with indication of being in 4x4 on the gauge cluster

 

Does anybody know what it means if the 4x4 high and 4x4 low lights flash 6 times and the 4wd isnt working?

 

did you check the fuse under the hood?

 

I havnt yet no. I work nights and its been icing and now its below zero, just trying to find out where to start when I can pull it in the shed.