front diff problem...acts like 4wd is engaged while turning

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jshreve

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Exactly what the title says 03 model 5.4 in 2wd will act like its in 4wd while turning it vibrates. Then goes away...not every time just every now an then 4high an 4low will flash a couple times every now. An then....any idea's what to look for
 

FordandPolaris

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Look into the IWE solenoid. Basically it controls the vacuum at the hubs. If no vacuum, the hubs engage and will feel like being in 4x4 despite no drive from the front driveshaft.
 
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jshreve

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So I watched the video ..so there's no actual actuator its all part of the hub assembly and vaccine operated. Right?
 

ExpeditionAndy

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The IWE relay is mounted on the firewall near the battery. It has an electrical connection and a vacuum connection. The electrical connection tells when to pass vacuum to the hubs and when not to pass it. This relay frequently fails because water gets into causing the water to get into the hubs like he showed on the video.

In the first minute or so of the video he talks about how the system works and how to check it. What it a couple of times and you'll get it. It is really easy to understand.
 

jdecker

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Here is everything you could ever want to know about the IWE: http://www.warn.com/powertrain/images/611/IWE 2006.PDF

And as Andy pointed out the vacuum control solenoid that controls them is mounted on the firewall behind the battery.

However, do to the fact that your 4wd lights are flashing I suspect you'll find your problems are deeper than a IWE/vacuum problem. My guess and the easiest/cheapest fix would be the speed sensors, but you really need to find someone who can do a scan of the 4wd control module and see what codes you find.
 

mindgame

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I would just change it... All it takes is some cra* to get into it to make it unreliable.

There are those who check it and say it is fine, but issues still persist until they totally replace it...
:head3:
 
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jshreve

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I got to change it now the bottom. Vacuum. Line connector broke off...but I also noticed my driver front caliper is sticking ...could this be the culprit ...that's when I feel the vibration turning while in the brakes or just getting off them
 

jdecker

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I would just change it... All it takes is some cra* to get into it to make it unreliable.

There are those who check it and say it is fine, but issues still persist until they totally replace it...
:head3:

The reason I suggested his problem may be more is because a bad IWE won't cause the 4wd lights to flash.

The bad caliper could definitely be what your feeling though.

Btw, you can get an aftermarket solenoid at most parts stores it's Dorman part# 600-400
 
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jshreve

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The 4wd light flashing only did that twice both times I just came outa 4high 30 seconds later it flashed I threw it back in 4high then back out into 2high haven't seen it since...
 
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