Hi all, another common 4x4 shifting problem. 2003 ranger XLT 4.0 manual. New motorcraft 4x4 control module, new transfer case shift motor, fuses good. I can shift into 4hi, but the shift motor does not continue turning to 4lo. I have verified this by removing shift motor but leaving it plugged in and having someone turn the selector switch with brake on while I watched shift motor turn. It will shift to 4hi,sometimes on its own go back to 2wd or just stop at 4hi. I have sifted through the forums and can't find this particular situation. I know on the earlier models there is a speed sensor to make sure you're not going over a certain speed before it shifts into 4lo, does my model have anything like that? Thank you

 

I don't have that same setup, but I had to get my transmission swapped when I first got my truck. The transmission guy told me it was super common for him to get Rangers stuck in 4LO. He told me avoid it at all costs, but if I have to use I need to be in neutral. I have an automatic so to use 4HI I have to be in park. He said 4Hi has something I can't exactly remember the terms for, but essentially when switching to 4HI the transfer case can align the gearing but 4 LO doesn't have that so it can be problematic. I know this isn't much in terms of solid info, but maybe it'll help...

Good luck!

 

These 1354 TCase controls allow shifting "on the fly" from 2WHi into 4WHi & back; meaning Trans@Drive & Speed>0.
However, to shift from 4WHi into 4WLo & back, must have Trans@Neutral, full stop Speed=0, & foot on BrakePedal.
Recommend "excercising" the 1354 TCase once a month, shifting 2WHi~4WHi~4WLo & back, drive a few yards in each mode;
helps keep the NotoriousFailureItems 4x4ShiftMotor & 4x4ConModule from getting "crusty".

 

Switch, control module, transfer case motor replaced and still same problem. So I eliminated all of it with a Behemoth electric to manual conversion kit. Shift selector on the floor now 😎