4x4 DOES NOT WORK
 

Welcome to the forum

1995 to 2000 Ranger 4x4s used the GEM module(behind the radio) to operate the 4WD system

There are 4 parts to this system
Dash switch, never fails/breaks unless hit with a hammer, lol
GEM module, can fail
Dual relay box, behind GEM, can fail
Shift motor, fails from disuse never over use

GEM runs ALL the electrics in the cab, dome light, wipers, chime, speedometer, power windows and power door locks, and the 4x4 system if so equipped
If there are no other electric issues then GEM may be OK
GEM is powered by cab fuses 10, 20, 25 and 28, check all 4, pull them out and look

Shift motor is power by fuse 3 but in Engine bay fuse box not cab fuse box

There are 2 4WD lights on the dash, BOTH should come on and then go off when you turn on the key, each time you turn on the key, this is called a Bulb Test, all the lights in the dash should do this, that way driver will know if a bulb is burned out
So turn the key on and off as much as you need to to see if BOTH 4WD light bulbs are working

Lights working is important because the GEM controls those lights and will Flash them if it detects a problem in the 4WD system, but if bulbs are burned out..........................
Flashing 4WD lights would mean GEM is OK but dual relay box or shift motor was not

You can pull out the radio and try unplugging and plugging back in the 4 connectors on GEM module, could just be loose connector, you can also then get the part number from

The dual relay box is behind the GEM, its mounted on the firewall, this is what "clicks" when 4WD system is working
The GEM controls this relay box, box sends 12volt and ground to shift motor, or ground and 12volts to reverse its direction
If there is no "click" then fuse is blown or relays are bad but..................GEM would flash the 4WD lights if that was the case