97 Blazer 4X4 shift problems

[isf_blue]

My 97 Blazer 4X4 automatic V6 is unable to shift from 2WD to 4WD via the push buttons. I have put the transmission in neutral and pushed the 4WDH button but it stays in 2WD mode. The buttons light up for a few seconds and then goes out. The manual says that if this fails, an adjustment is needed by a GM dealer. Is there another fix?

Thanks, Chris

[tazmtiger]

I have a 1997 Chevy Blazer, And I have not been able to use the 4X4 due to the same issue you have.. One of my co-workers has an identical truck like mine which had the same problem, he took it to an autoshop, and they raplaced some kind of small shift motor related to it, which costs about $270.00, with parts and labor he ended paying $375.00. that did the job!
(((Me... I just live without my 4X4, and I live in snow land.. lol))) Can't afford to pay that much. I think '97 Blazers have a generic 4X4 problem.

[BlazerLT]

Check to see if the vacuum transfer case actuator has not popped a vacuum line off.

[pressman20]

I had the same problem with my 97. Try disconnecting the battery for about an hour. If that doesn't work, replace the electric shifter motor on the transfer case yourself, it's easy and saves you a butt load of labor. Remember to unhook your battery before you replace the motor.

Good luck.

[Hunter1]

I have the EXACT same problem. I have an SES code P1870 (I think) Anyway it is a 4X4 switch code according to Autozone. They of coarse have never heard of it. Does anyone know what this switch is or maybe the name for the motor on the transfer case is the same thing. I would welcome ANY help on this matter.

[wolfox]

That makes no sense - P1870's a slipping tranny code. *NOT* related to 4x4 engage/disengage.

[BlazerLT]

DTC P1870 Transmission Component Slipping

Could be unrelated.

I would call your dealer and get the number for the electronic 4x4 transfer case motor.

[Hunter1]

Thanks guys, I stopped by the dealership yesterday to get information on the trasfer case motor. $500 is really all of the infromation I need to know. The gentleman I spoke with was fairly confident that something else is keeping the 4wd from engauging. He mentioned a two swiches, one on the dash, and one located by the ECM that engauges the vaccuum. He didn't seem to know of a way to test either switch. The lights on the switch come on when the truck starts, so I think it works. The more pressing problem is that P1870 code.

[andyj82]

I have the exact same issue with my 97 4WD, how big is the job getting at the shift motor to replace it?

[BlazerLT]

It is not a huge job at all.

Grab a new encoder motor at the local wrecker.

[BlazinUP]

by encoder motor ...do you mean transfer case actuator motor? (what physically changes the gears on the transfercase..kinda looks like a starter motor..attached to a bracket)
thats what iv head it being called.....
same thing...i dont know

[BlazerLT]

Yes.