4wd does not work. what to look for?

89suki · 10-28-2009, 03:39 PM

i own a 1989 sidekick 1.6 8v and my 4wheel drive isnt working. the things i have noticed that work. when i lock the hubs (manual hubs) they lock and the front axles lock and same with the front drive shaft now, my problem is i just dont have 4wd power it just does rwd. what should i look for or should i look into getting another tcase?

Bex · 10-28-2009, 04:03 PM

Have you checked transfer case fluid and/or ever replaced it?

89suki · 10-28-2009, 04:14 PM

i checked the level and its full. but no i havnt changed it. i bought the car bout a month ago. so who know when it was changed.

Bex · 10-28-2009, 04:40 PM

I would first re-test locking hubs according to following test:
testing 4wd action
If hubs lock and shafts respond according to that test, then assume that your problem is in the transfer case. Does the lever seem to go properly from 2WD to 4 H and 4L?

aquanaut20 · 10-29-2009, 04:01 PM

when the truck is on blocks/lift, (4 wheels off ground) engine running, trany in gear, T/C in 4hi, does the front shaft rotate (between the T/C and front diff)??

95 Tracker · 10-31-2009, 01:27 PM

i had the same problem as you but i just said the hell with it and bought new manual locking hubs and now i have 4x4. but i knew it worked the winter before. the 4x4 seldom gets used and there is no wear and tear on those components when not in use. so unless you bought a beater or was heavely used off road i can't see what would go wrong with the 4x4 system other that the hubs not working and esp for an 89

ArgoGirb67 · 10-31-2009, 02:51 PM

If you can verify the hubs are locking(lock hubs,leave T case in 2 WD, try to turn drive shaft),then unlock hubs,T case in 4 hi (try low too) try to turn front driveshaft again.(drive it back and forth a bit first)If driveshaft turns freely you have a problem with the Tcase or shifter linkage

kick-fix · 10-31-2009, 10:12 PM

what tranny? just curious you didnt say.

lock both hubs. 4wd.engaged
jack one front wheel
try to turn it.
if you cant , its working (but dont know what tranny so put 5sp in 1st or slush in park)
if the wheel spins.
then look under , the part the moves is failing.

nothing moves but wheel ,then that lock your turning is bad!

if that wheel and axle turns, then look at other side axle? it turns? yes, then that locker is bad , on other side on ground.
only front prop shaft turning?, then bad xfr case. ( im sure tranny is good)

testing 4wd action

6 steps , to an answer.

i bet hubs are filthy pigs, i just bet they are.
then need service, or they will stick.