I've got an automatic 3.0 4x4 which engages with the switch. Twice over the past year it's stopped engaging when I flip the switch. I've read and got bookmarked a great article on here about how to take the electric motor out and rebuild it.. but both times after I've disconnected the negative cable it's started right back working. Is that common? I guess for now, until the problem pops up more I'll just make sure I've got a wrench for the battery terminal. Should I go ahead and try to take the motor off and fix it permanantly.

thanks

 

I do the same thing with mine... i'll have to disconnect the battery than engage 4 wheel drive. If i turn it off and try to turn it back on without disconnecting the battery again it starts flashing the code. Its annoying, but it works for now. I found a salvage yard here that i can get a used electric transfer case motor for like 30 bucks with a warranty, im gunna do that here when it warms up so next year i don't have these problems, im also replacing my hubs with manual ones... im not sure what ford was thinking of this setup between 98-2000

- Brad

 

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You should invest in the clamp type quick disconnect for the negative battery terminal. Only a few bucks at any auto store. I installed one on my neg side and a gold one on my positive. Works great when you need to disconnect. But it would be best to try to replace it when you get time but this would work for now.

 

Wirelessly posted

You should invest in the clamp type quick disconnect for the negative battery terminal. Only a few bucks at any auto store. I installed one on my neg side and a gold one on my positive. Works great when you need to disconnect.

 

Yep, that's a great idea. I'll get one. I've been looking online too and you can get a new motor online for about $75, so if it gets worse & I can't fix it following that really good thread maybe it won't be that expensive for a new one.