4x4 not working

[avnsteve]

Hello all, first time owner 98 1500 (360/automatic (unknown model tranny) 4x4 with 130K miles. I've been in the jeep scene for years, this is my first Dodge. I pulled the transfer case to 4H and noticed the front wheels are not pulling, shifted to 4L and still nothing. Is this strictly a mechanical xfer case engagement or is there an electrical doohickey that may have failed? Also, after some searching, I cannot determine what model tranny/xfer case I have, do you know what it is, or how I can determine for myself?

TIA

edit: also noticed the O/D button on shifter stem is not lit, nor does it appear to affect transmission while driving...maybe related?

 

[05ram4x4]

I believe the 4x4 system is partially mechanical (shifting the transfer case) and partially controlled by vacuum. On the front axle there should be a box looking thins with wires and vacuum hoses running to it. It's located on the passenger half of the axle. I'd take a look at that.

 

[avnsteve]

thanks for the reply, Renix era jeep XJ's had a 3 piece axle shaft with a vacuum operated engagement mechanism. what an abortion that was, I hope this is better...

 

[avnsteve]

it was a rubber vacuum line running along the cross member into transmission. glad it was simple!

 

[BaileysOffroad]

You should have a 46re trans....that thingy is call a cad (central axle disconnect) it is vacuum powered...the vacuum moves a shift fork over to engage the axle and this movment also triggers your 4wd light (if your switch is working properly)

Glad you got this figured out

your tcase is an Np231 or if your lucky an NP231HD....you might recall from the jeep scene this was a desirable tcase for them being chain driven...on these trucks its the weaker one in the lineup..the 2500 and 3500 got a NP241