94 ranger 4x4 manual trans 4.0l.

The arrow shaped shifter in the transfer case. I’m trying to turn it with pliers from 4L to either 4H or 2H. It feels like I’m torquing on a spring that tightens as I turn. If I let go it “springs” itself back into 4L. It’s in neutral. I’ve also jacked up the front tires to see if that makes a difference. No luck. Is this normal? I’m afraid I’m going to break something by turning it. Thanks!

 

You need to take the load off of the transfer case, front AND rear driveshaft
So trans in Neutral and if e-brake is on take it off, put a piece of wood or whatever under a tire to stop it from rolling
Under the truck move the rear driveshaft it should turn a bit, if trans is in neutral, that takes the load off the transfer case

Yes there is a spring, well 2, but you can still turn it
If in 4l then it can only be turned clockwise, to Neutral(across from 2H, not marked), then to 4H and then to 2H

Picture here: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...ft_motor-2.JPG

Pointed at 2WD(2H) in pic, it can only be turned counter clockwise to 4H, NOT to 4L
If in 4L can only be turned clockwise to 4H

 

That did the trick! What’s the proper way here to show my appreciation?

I’m also curious if raising both axels is because of the load in 4L or if this still applies when shifting between the other modes as well.

 

Just click the like button, which you did, thanks
Also if/when you fix a problem, post a follow up so other members can take advantage of your solution to a problem

Both driveshafts need to be "unloaded" to shift transfer case manually, electric shift has an electric clutch it uses for that

And transfer case will not stay in selected position if shift motor is removed, so you need to use, say visegrip pliers, to turn it and then strap the pliers to holding the shifter in that position

 

Ron, which position does it want to default to? It’s currently in 2H with motor removed. I was hoping I could drive it but not if it’s going to switch on its own. I’m hesitant to strap vice grips. What is the default position it wants to stay in?

 

There is no default position, shaft is free to move counter clockwise from 2H
You can see how much effort is required against spring pressure and decide if you think it will stay in place as is
There is no internal pressure for it to shift, just the vibrations of driving

If only the Shiftster was still around: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/a...3&d=1501298943

You see them on ebay but they get bought up pretty fast: https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/attac...1colors006.jpg
Manually shift transfer case and it holds it in position

Maybe you can make something from the old shift motor, disassemble it and use your imagination