1997 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 lariat - can't shift into 4x4

[ksukat]

I have a 1997 dodge ram 1500 4x4 with 360 magnum engine.
In the cab, I cannot move the shifter out of 2 high. The shifter just won't budge.
I've tried in park, in neutral, engine running, engine off.

Truck drives fine. Just can't shift into 4x4. Any ideas?

Thanks.

 

[Travelin Ram]

How long has it been since it was last used? Sounds like either the shift linkage or the shift fork inside the case is seized.

I would start with examining the connection at the transfer case while an assistant tries to move the lever inside. See if any force is being applied at the case or if the linkage upstream is the problem.

 

[Jkidd]

On 2nd gen dodges like mine, the 4wheel drive uses vacuum to shift truck into 4wheel drive. Mine wasn't shifting and my trans guy found the problem( which ended up being roached out hard lines against the frame rail and broken soft lines to the transfer case from dry rot). Thats where I wound start.

 

[Badger 13]

I 2nd what Travelin Ram said. Your year still has a shift rod with linkage to the transfer case. The linkage may need some serious spray lube, or again, something inside the case itself is messed up.

 

[rick phillips]

If shifter moved but 4X4 didn't engage, I'd think vacuum. Shifter won't move, I'd say shifter or linkage.