How to unlock front axle in 4-low
#1
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How to unlock front axle in 4-low
I've read old threads giving details about how to "turn off" the front axle while in 4-low, making it easier to maneuver trailers in tight places without binding up the front axle. I’ve just about wore out my welcome trying different words to search for, and can’t find anything. There was a diagram with a vacuum actuator and an on/off toggle switch (almost seemed too simple). I’m open for any and all suggestions…
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I think Piers(i think) sells a kit called a 2wd low kit that shuts off the vaccum on one of the lines with the flip of a switch so that you can be in 2wd even when you are in low range if you want.
Eric
Eric
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There are several places that sell the kit. This is where I got mine from. Nice people and a good price.
http://www.usdieselparts.com/accessories/lowranger.cfm
http://www.usdieselparts.com/accessories/lowranger.cfm
#4
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Originally Posted by F. Flack
I've read old threads giving details about how to "turn off" the front axle while in 4-low, making it easier to maneuver trailers in tight places without binding up the front axle. I’ve just about wore out my welcome trying different words to search for, and can’t find anything. There was a diagram with a vacuum actuator and an on/off toggle switch (almost seemed too simple). I’m open for any and all suggestions…
and forget it... it is the best thing ive done for my 4wd. Simply unlock the front diff, make your turn, and lock it again and you are good to go...
Tx
#5
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I purchased a solenoid, 2G497 from Grainger, $28. This is a very small 12v solenoid that is used with a lot of the exhaust brakes. You also need a switch, two 1/8" barbed hose connectors and a bit of wire, ten more dollars.
To install find the vacuum line along the top of the firewall just above the fuel filter. This is the vacuum line going down to the transfer case. All you have to do is place the solenoid anywhere in this line, which when switched on will block the vacuum from going to the stock solenoid that is activated when you pull the transfer case shifter into 4wd.
Simple as can be.
BD also makes an excellent kit for $85.
1-800-887-5030
To install find the vacuum line along the top of the firewall just above the fuel filter. This is the vacuum line going down to the transfer case. All you have to do is place the solenoid anywhere in this line, which when switched on will block the vacuum from going to the stock solenoid that is activated when you pull the transfer case shifter into 4wd.
Simple as can be.
BD also makes an excellent kit for $85.
1-800-887-5030
#7
i did a 2 low kit on my 99. mounted a vacuum switch and just did a little re-routing of vacuum lines. i bought the kit off a guy on TDR. heres a pic
http://dodgetruckworld.tenmagazines....s-1-album-8567
i wish there was a way to do this on my 05, that was one of the best mods on my 99.....
http://dodgetruckworld.tenmagazines....s-1-album-8567
i wish there was a way to do this on my 05, that was one of the best mods on my 99.....
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#8
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Originally Posted by whitebuffalo
i wish there was a way to do this on my 05, that was one of the best mods on my 99.....
phox
#10
Two low is a sweet feature, especially for manuevering a trailer. I have it on my suburban.
BUT REMEMBER, with a CTD, and in low range you have ridiculous torque available in this mode, and its all going to the rear end, and with the weight of the trailer on it, it aint gonna spin!!!! Easy with that clutch.....
KP
BUT REMEMBER, with a CTD, and in low range you have ridiculous torque available in this mode, and its all going to the rear end, and with the weight of the trailer on it, it aint gonna spin!!!! Easy with that clutch.....
KP
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Guys, thanks for all the help. It is greatly appreciated!
Thanks infidel, I was hoping to get a part number to go off of. My friend has an account with Grainger, and is checking into it for me. I asked the local auto parts store to find an EGR vacuum switch off a Civic (explained in great detail on what it was to be used for) -- without a specific part number or application, they could only come up with a control switch for $135. I knew it wasn't what I wanted, but couldn't get through to them on what I needed.
Good idea TxDiesel007. I've looked into the Posi-Lock several months ago, and will probably get one if/when the vacuum switch/control goes out on the front axle. Just a little too much expense for right now. I'm hoping to get billet shafts and injectors first. If I had the truck off-road more often, or needed to use 4x4 more frequently, it would be higher on my list.
Originally Posted by infidel
I purchased a solenoid, 2G497 from Grainger, $28...
Originally Posted by TxDiesel007
Posi lock it
#12
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Originally Posted by infidel
I purchased a solenoid, 2G497 from Grainger, $28. This is a very small 12v solenoid that is used with a lot of the exhaust brakes.
#13
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Has anyone come up with a way to do 2wd low for a late 2002 without the CAD??
The only option I've come up with so far is a manual hub conversion kit from Dynatrac. Anyone done the manual Dynatrac hubs? Any mpg increase?
jh
The only option I've come up with so far is a manual hub conversion kit from Dynatrac. Anyone done the manual Dynatrac hubs? Any mpg increase?
jh
#14