Hi Scotty - I really enjoy your advice and skills. I am not a mechanic or very skilled with tools, however, your easy to understand instructions have convinced me to give it another try. I own a 2002 Ford Truck with 4 wheel drive. I purchased it used about 3 years ago and the 4 wheel drive has never worked. I purchased an OBD scanner that you promoted and plugged it into the truck. It came back saying I needed to replace the 4 wheel drive solenoid switch - I assume it is the switch on the dashboard. This looks like a complicated manuever so I am seeking your counsel and advice. Is this something you might suggest a former submarine ping jockey such as myself attempt to do?
Thank you for your advice and all the wonderful tips. Keep 'em coming!
Regards,
Daniel J Bell
Meridian Idaho
Scanners never say to replace anything. They will tell you what malfunction there was, and then you need to diagnose the cause of it. What is the exact code the scanner gave you?
The 4WD switch/button/lever will be somewhere in the cabin, but the solenoid will be on the axle.
If you want to perform major repairs, I suggest finding a service manual, or at least a video on Youtube. Mechanical repairs/troubleshooting usually aren't something that can be taught in a forum post.
