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Bucking/jerking while accelerating unless using cruise control

Tiny
MILES SZABO
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC
  • 4.0L
  • V6
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 157,000 MILES
The car bucks and jerks very violently when you accelerate using the gas pedal, but very inconsistently. I am losing my mind trying to figure out the issue but I have some confidence it has to do with the transfer case fork.
Saturday, May 13th, 2023 AT 1:09 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,867 POSTS
Hi,

Is there an issue related to the transfer case you are questioning? Also, does the check engine light ever come on when this happens? Does it stay on when the engine is running?

I ask because I'm not sure how the transfer case is causing the issue. Do you hear knocking or banging when this happens?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, May 14th, 2023 AT 8:24 PM
Tiny
MILES SZABO
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  • 3 POSTS
I have some suspicion it's trying to engage 4x4 while driving. No check engine light, but my last transfer case was ruined which is what makes me suspicious. Also, yes. Loud banging.
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Monday, May 15th, 2023 AT 5:20 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,867 POSTS
Hi,

Let's try something. On the transfer case is the shift motor. Make sure the vehicle is in 2wd and disconnect the shift motor to see if the problem stops. If there is no change, then it's likely not the electronics. If it stops, we need to work backward to see if we can determine where there is an issue. See pic below

Keep in mind, the vehicle has a 4wd control module under the dash that could be the problem. If possible, scan the can-bus to see if there are codes in that module indicating an issue.

Here is a link that shows how it's done:

.https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Let me know if that is something you have done or can do.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Monday, May 15th, 2023 AT 6:56 PM
Tiny
MILES SZABO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks Jacob, it's currently having some other work done about an hour away but I will definitely try that as soon as I get the opportunity. I presume the disconnect for the shift motor refers to the electrical harness on the transfer case? Then, what, I'd want to get it on some jack stands and see if there's any movement of the front driveshaft? Also, I really appreciate your replies. Thanks
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Monday, May 15th, 2023 AT 6:59 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,867 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. And yes, the connector to the actuator on the transfer case. I'm curious if there is something causing it to jump around on you. If we remove the power to it, that will prevent it from receiving a signal to change modes.

Let me know when you can. I'm interested in knowing what you find.

Take care,

Joe
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Monday, May 15th, 2023 AT 7:49 PM

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