1996 Presumed Thermal Linear Actuator Problem

[crazymjb]

Hi all, It's been a while since I've been on, which I suppose is good as I haven't had many problems with my truck.

 

Winter is approaching, so of course, my 4WD stopped working. I have yet to test the voltage going to the thermal linear actuator but I presume that is the source of the problem. 4WD engagement become somewhat unreliable (popping in and out, etc), and has now stopped all together. The light just blinks in 4hi and 4lo. I can hear the transfer case shifting so I don't believe that is the problem, and it does go into 4Lo.

 

So I imagine after checking voltages and so fourth I will find I need to replace the thermal linear actuator. I heard that the 1998 and newer vehicles used a motor actuator, in place of the heated gas piston design. If this is true, can this be used in my truck? Also, do I sound correct in my assessment of the problem (again all I need is a voltage check to confirm the problem)?

 

Thanks guys,

 

Mike

[Ben]

Both leaks and bad thermal heater are common, as

that design is a POS.

 

Replace it with the OEM motorized (solenoid) or any

of the after market solenoid types. I'd not go with

any of the vacuum mechanisms.

 

I'm going to replace mine with a hard wire cable

with a knob inside some where. Now that I'm

semi-retired, going to get back to serious off

roading.

 

I leave my 4x4 (some times on very steep hills)

to go deeper into the wilderness and don't want

to come back and find my vehicle down the hill

because the 4x4 system dis-engaged (heater

shuts off when ignition turned off). Stupid design...

[crazymjb]

Thanks guys, found this:

 

http://getdieselpower.com/misc_auto/actuat...OR_UPGRADE.html

 

Mike

[crazymjb]

Where is a good switched source to tap into? I was thinking of taking out the fuse panel and tapping into the connection for the transfer case control. Should I just use an add-a-circuit? Also, I can't seem to get the dash fuse panel out.

 

Thanks,

 

Mike