Transfer case indicator shows 2H, but I'm still in 4H . . .

[bturman]

Hi all. I've always come to this site for info on my bronco, and have always found the solution to my problem somewhere on the forum or tech page. However, I'm at a loss and can't seem to find a similar situation . . .

Vehicle info -
1990 Ford Bronco II
4WD, 2.9L, Manual

Issue -
My transfer case indicates that it is in 2H, but appears to be stuck in 4H . . .

I just replaced the electric shift motor today, as the snowy season has arrived in Colorado and I've avoided replacing it for some time. After replacing it, I went for a test drive in the snow. It shifted into 4H perfectly. Then 4L perfectly (stopped, with foot on brake and clutch in). Then back to 4H just fine. When I shifted back into 2H, the lighted indicator on the dash showed that it had gone back into 2H. I backed up about 10 feet to get the hubs to release.

Soon after, I discovered that I was still in 4H. After several forward/backward motions, I was still stuck in 4H, though the dash light indicator showed 2H. I decided to take the electric shift motor off to see what was going on. To my surprise, the motor was functioning perfectly - as indicated on the transfer case, it had turned it back to 2H. BUT . . . I am most definitely still in 4 wheel drive.

Additional observations -
When I back up, there is a single clicking noise from the front end. When I then go forward, there is another single click.


I'd really like to get back to 2 wheel drive. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcome. Thanks so much.

 

[bturman]

Driving along last night, I heard (and felt) two moderately loud clunks, about 30 seconds apart. The car is now back in 2WD. What could cause this clunking - the hubs, lack of t-case oil, something else?

 

[WingsOfSaturn]

Bet you have auto hubs. Try cleaning them up and they MIGHT work(for awhile). Best solution is to switch to manual hubs.