4x4 problem continued

I have a 1998 ford ranger and the 4x4 is NOT working

When i switch my switch to 4x4 it shows it on the dash and i could feel it change like the transfer case was changing and i believed that my 4x4 worked, in till i took it out off roading and learned that my front tires where not engaging.

so i got a pair of manual locking hubs thinking this would fix my problem.
after i put them on i took it back out off roading, and my tires where still not engaging.

only thing i can think of now is that it is something inside of my front differential.

so i am wanting to know if anyone can help me out with what i am going to be looking at once i take off that differential plate, what i should be looking to see is broken or out of place?

or what else can be making my 4x4 not work...

Not wanting to take this shit to a dealer/mechanic!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Ford....

 

this belongs in the WTF thread

 

Look at his intro thread, he's friends with a user on here. Don't blame him coming here looking for advice...

 

general automotive should welcome all types of vehicles if i'm not mistaken.. which is the reason it's in off topic section. please don't post if you have negative comments.. thanks to those of you who have useful advice..

 

there is a rattling noise that could be from there, we're not sure.

but it only occurs after i've switched out of 4x4 back into 2wd, and that lasts about a minute or so then goes away, but it happens every time.

but since i installed the manual locking hubs, i haven't heard it. but it's only been a couple days, so it could still be present.

 

I had a '99 Mazda B3000, which was for all intents and purposes a Ranger. This sounds like a vacuum problem. Here is a LINK that may help.

Frank

 

My front diff seemed to be doing the same thing, I needed a new diff.