Four wheel drive not engaging

2002 CHEVROLET TRACKER
153,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JUMPINGENERAL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
4wd not engaging. 4wd light stays on while shifted into 4wd high or low. Front driveshaft turns while in 4wd. Actuator pump works properly and shuts off after 2 to 4 seconds. Will the Actuator pump system act properly if the Actuator is stuck in the 2wd position? Fluid level is okay.
Why won't 4wd engage?
Jan 21, 2022 at 3:48 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

If the actuator is stuck, it won't engage the axle. When the transfer case is placed in 4WH or 4WL, the electric motor actuator turns on and builds pressure. When the pressure reaches the specific amount (within seconds) the actuator engages and locks the differential into the drive mode.

You indicated the motor is running for a couple of seconds, so either it is stuck, something is preventing the air to build pressure, or the actuator itself is bad.

I attached a pic below of the air inlet union and hose. Inspect those to make sure nothing is damaged or rusted shut.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Jan 21, 2022 at 8:01 PM
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JUMPINGENERAL
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  • 2 POSTS
Hi Joe,

Thank you for the information. I was just hoping there would be an easy fix but apparently, I am going to have to pull the differential and open it to find the problem. As I see it, I will have to take the power Steering down, remove the front drive shaft, disconnect the axles on both sides, then remove the differential. Looks like I have a lot of work going forward. Thanks for your help.
Jan 21, 2022 at 8:33 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. And yes, it's a lot of work to remove. If you need help or guidance in any way, let me know and I'll do my best to help.

Take care,

Joe
Jan 22, 2022 at 2:44 PM