Ranger 4wd motor is skipping 4H and only goes into 4L and 2H

[Heisler3]

So my ranger is skipping 4H it will go into 4L wich is up and 2H is which is left and at the end but will not go into 4H which is down, I have a new 4wd shifter motor but idk what the problem is. It is like the motor is literally skipping 4H or does not know that it igzists. Could it be a switch problem? My shifter is the knob shifter (rotary switch) that has the electric shifter motor (1997 ranger XLT)

 

[ericbphoto]

I'm confused. You seem to be describing shift patterns for a manual shifter on the floor. But then you talk about a shift motor.

So, do you have;

A. A shift lever on the floor
B. 2 pushbuttons near the top center of your dash
C. A rotary switch near your radio and air conditioning controls

 

[Heisler3]

So my ranger is skipping 4H it will go into 4L wich is up and 2H is which is left and at the end but will not go into 4H which is down, I have a new 4wd shifter motor but idk what the problem is. It is like the motor is literally skipping 4H or does not know that it igzists. Could it be a switch problem? My shifter is the knob shifter that has the electric shifter motor

I have the knob, or rotary switch as you called it

 

[ericbphoto]

It could be a problem with the rotary switch. But it is more likely dirty contacts in the shift motor assembly, especially if it doesn't get used often. These contacts can be cleaned. There is a cover that comes off and exposes the contacts assembly and the worm gear that shifts the transfer case. If you choose to try cleaning it, mark the cover in such a way that you can reinstall it exactly in the same orientation. Rotating that cover adjusts where the motor stops for each function.

The contacts inside can be wiped clean, lightly wire brushed and even cleaned with electrical contact cleaner. Apply fresh grease to the worm gear. Put a small amount if grease on the seal around the edge of the cover to make sure it seals nicely.

It is good practice to exercise the shift motor monthly so the brushes can keep the contact bars clean and free of corrosion.

 

[ericbphoto]

I just remembered I had an extra shift motor lying arou d, so I just created these real quick. Sorry for the quality. This was a quick and dirty recording using my phone one-handed.

 

[Heisler3]

I just remembered I had an extra shift motor lying arou d, so I just created these real quick. Sorry for the quality. This was a quick and dirty recording using my phone one-handed.

Alright, thank you for the help I’ll tear it apart!