The 4x4 indicator light started staying on in my Dakota when the lever was
moved
back to 2wd a couple of weeks ago. My first though was it's just a sticking
switch (my friend that was the original owner stated he had the switch
replaced
twice) and I did not worry to much about it.
Chances are it is a stuck switch. A vacumme switch. This is a notorious
problem with the NP transfercases.
On the Transfer case, you'll find a little tower with several vacumme line
comming from it. (not sure of the exact location as it moved from model to
model and year to year, but try either near the rear drive yoke, or between
the input and front yoke. this second position is a pain in the butt to
work on, but is more protected.) Very carefully (and I mean very
carefully) pull the vacumme lines off the switch. The top of the switch is
made of plastic and can easily break if too much side pressure is applied.
Once the lines are off, the switch can be unscrewed. A special socket is
the proper way, but I just use a large pair of vice grip pliers.
Once out, turn the switch over. You will see a little rounded plunger.
This is the problem. As gunk builds up the case, it finds its way to the
switch. Once the plunger is pressed (activating 4WD) the gunk lodges
itself between the plunger and the case of the switch. This prevents the
spring in the switch from pushing the plunger back out when in 2WD.
By using some WD40 or Liquid Wrench, you can clean out the switch and then
re-install. Cycle the plunger with your fingers until it moves smoothly
and easily.
A new switch is about $30 if things are too dirty.
The light stays on because the light is operated from the vacumme motor at
the axle.
Newer Dakotas do not use this system, and the front end always turns. You
can determine if you have it or not by looking for a 5" disk behind the
front axle on the passenger side, inboard of the inner CV joint.
If you have the disconnect, you can verify it is working by twisting the
front driveshaft by hand. In 4WD you shouldn't be able, and in 2WD, you
should.
Christopher Siano | "How do you control this thing?"
CSiano@Banyan.com | "Who Cares, Go FASTER!"
| -Suicide
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