4x4 not engaging

I have a 96 Tahoe and when I put it in either 4H or 4L the 4x4 indicator light just keeps blinking and never engages. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Probably the front axle actuator. On the passenger side of the front axle the actuator is screwed in, if it's still the old thermal actuator it is metal with a 2 wire plug, the newer ones are plastic and have three wires(production started in 98) and the axle engages immediately. It cost me about $110 for parts to switch my 96 over

Probably the front axle actuator. On the passenger side of the front axle the actuator is screwed in, if it's still the old thermal actuator it is metal with a 2 wire plug, the newer ones are plastic and have three wires(production started in 98) and the axle engages immediately. It cost me about $110 for parts to switch my 96 over

Jeremy....Thanks for the information. I had the same problem with my 1996 4X4 2-Door Z71 Tahoe, and found out too late while at my fishing/hunting lease after I had already been stuck. I took it to my local dealership, and after paying them $50 to tell me what the problem was, I was told there was a short in the actuator and would be about $500 to replace (parts and labor). Do you have any suggestions on where I can get the part and possibly do it myself? If you happen to know the part numbers that would be a great help. I am glad I stumbled across this forum. I hope it will save me some $$$.

Best regards,

Brandon, Plano TX

First look at the passenger side of the front axle about even with the extension(part the CV axle bolts to on pass. side), if its metal with a 2 wire plug its part number 26013495(thermal actuator). If its a plastic unit extending 5 inches or so out of the axle with 3 wires(might be a 4 wire plug, don't remember) you have the newer style actuator- stays locked in with key off, don't have to wait more than 2 seconds for axle to lock in- part number 26060073. If you want to upgrade to the new style and your vehicle GVW is not over 8500 lbs you will need part number 26060073 and a adapter wiring harness:

K1, K2(1/2 and 3/4 ton)
1988- dec 1995 build date(on driver door post tag)
12376316
Jan 1996-1997 model year-12376317
You can check prices at gmpartsdirect.com

Thanks for the info Jeremy. I bought the new actuator, harness, and spacer, But where do I hook up the wire at the end of the new harness?

There is a brown wire at the transfer case connector that it is supposed to be spliced in to(12v with key on). You could also hook it up to a brown wire with a female spade connector that should be sticking out of the wiring harness between the underhood fuse panel and fire wall(same circuit)

This is very useful...does it apply to 2001 Tahoes as well? Having the same problem.

2001 Tahoe would already have the newer front actuator, try putting it into 4x4 with the key on and engine off to see if any noise is coming from the front axle, but it might be the front axle switch.