93 Explorer 4wheel drive selector switch problems

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I have a 93 ford explorer and could use some help. This is a four wheel drive explorer and my four wheel drive selector switch on the instrument isn't working. Is there anything I can check before spending around 180 bucks on a replacement part. When I push the buttons to engage my four wheel drive the indicator light doesn't come on and the vehicle stays in the regular 2 wheel drive. I don't know if it's not getting any power to the switch or if there are any relays between the power and the switch that have gone bad. I don't even know which fuse or fuses control the switch. Any suggestions. The switch worked fine one day and the next it didn't. I also couldn't find any information about this in the repair manual unless I'm looking in the wrong place. The part # for the switch is sw4553. If I have to replace it is there other options than the local parts stores? Thanks

[3Wiles5]

did you have any luck fixing this I have the same problem?

[xFatcatx]

Heres a link to a 4x4 shift motor rebuild. This has been the fix for lots of people with the same problem. http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/...+motor+rebuild

[olddozer]

I also have the a simalar problem.You can check your 4x4 computer to see if it is working it is located over the left rear wheel well in the rear area of the explorer it has a button on it and if you push it a red light should come on if it is not already on.I f it does not then your computer is likely shot. I replaced mine and I replaced the shift motor on the transfer case and it still will not work I am going to change the dash mounted switch next and if that does not fix it then I will change the transfer case motor again with one from another explorer I have that was working just fine the motor at 300k was burning more oil than gas.

[3Wiles5]

Well my 4x4 shift problem ended up being a 4x4 module. I took the old motor off looked inside and all looked good so I hooked it up to my battery charger to cycle the motor through. It went in forward and reverse just fine so I put it back together. (make sure you use penetrating oil on the torque screws or you will break them off, like I did on the first one.
After this I knew it was either the switch on the dash that was bad or the 4x4 module. I took it in to get it tested and the module was bad. I found a replacement part for about $100. It took me 3 minutes to unhook the module and hook the new one back in and the four wheel worked perfectly, just in time for my wife to tell me that she wants a new explorer. Oh well!
here is the website to find an inexpensive part (relative to most ford parts stores)
millenniumford.com
just follow the instructions to look up your part.

Good luck

[swearinger]

where is this module located?

[realmntwin]

This must be a common problem, as mine too does this. But I've found that if you push the 4x4 button, then throw the car in reverse for 10-20 ft.... It works!! No clue why this works.