4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: 4wd only works in low range, ford bronco, soft dirt


Question
I have a 1995 Ford Bronco, 157000 miles. Push butoon 4wd seems not to lock but when pushing low range you can hear it lock the front hubs, and it stays in low range. Any idea what might be my problem? Any help much appreciated.

Answer
PK,

First of all, if you are trying to check out 4wd, make sure that you are not on a hard surface, dirt or asphalt.  This can put your transfer case in an extreme bind, and can destroy drive components.  I would go to an area that has loose, soft dirt, or sand, and try out 4wd, in high, and low range to see if the front end is actually locking in, or not.  This may be nothing more than a burned out indicator bulb.  If the front end doesn't work, then this could be one of several problems ranging from a bad switch to a faulty relay.  

If you want to try to trace out the problem yourself, I would suggest that you purchase a repair manual.  A Chilton's or a Hayne's manual can be purchased at most auto parts stores for $20.  They have a lot of information on basic trouble shooting, and repairs.  These manuals are designed for a year or range of years for specific vehicles, and are invaluable if you are planning on doing any repairs, or maintenance yourself.

Carl