Is it a normal thing for the 4x4 indicator light to not come on when the 4x4 is engaged?

 

Welcome to the forum

No, 4high and 4low lights should come on if either is selected

There is a "Bulb test" when you turn on the key, all dash indicator lights will come on for about 2 seconds and then go off if not activated, this is not a system test, just a bulb test

So check if a bulb is burned out

The lights are activated by the 4x4CM(control module) located in the passenger side kick panel in a 2001 Ranger, it controls the 4WD system, which just has 3 parts
Switch on the dash, never breaks
4x4CM, is a know issue on 2001-2006 Rangers
Shift motor, on transfer case, will last a long while if you shift to 4low once a month, don't have to drive in 4WD just shift it to keep motor's brushes and rotor clean and the lube inside it spread out

 

Thank you for the help

 

So I changed the control module and now all it shows is 4wd low

 

And that's when you are in 4low?
Or in any selection?

And what happens in the "bulb test", do BOTH lights come on?

And is it a new 4x4CM or used?
If new what brand

 

In any selection and only the 4low light comes on. it was a pull a part. Although I pulled it from the same year explorer so it may be that.

 

Yes, that one would be wired the same unless it was an 01/02 Explorer Sports Trac
2001-2005 Rangers and 2001/2 SportTracs are interchangeable

Sport Trac is the 4 door cab(crew cab) with short pick up bed in the back

 

So I don’t know what the issue would be then maybe I got a bad replacement part. Could have happened since I got it at a pull a part

 

A 2001 Explorer 4x4CM wouldn't work, and thats what you said you got??????

Only 2001 Sport Trac 4x4cm would work, so yes you got the wrong part

 

Ok now another issue has come up. I got the right transfer case control module and put it in. Now the truck will not shift into gear at all the gear shifter is stuck in park.

 

Check fuse #9 AND fuse #10 in cab fuse box, 7.5amp, you may have shorted a wire plugging in the 4x4CM

The Column shifter has a Shift Lock solenoid, it unLocks when you press down brake pedal, allowing you to shift out of Park, there is a brake pedal switch, its a DUAL switch, one switch is for brake lights, the other is a "sensor" switch, it unLocks Shifter AND is used to shift into 4Low, so connected to 4x4CM

Google: Ford shift interlock

To see what prevents shifting out of Park, I think there is a manual release under steering column but not sure for 2001, or where it would be

 

RonD your awesome thank you for the assistance you just saved me a whole bunch of money. It was the #9 fuse that was blown and everything works normal now.