Engaging Low Range 4WD Problems

[Flyingdog]

I bought my QX4 off someone who very rarely (if ever) engaged low range 4WD. I don't use it very often myself, but I like to play with things.

I can disengage from High Range without any problems but getting into Low Range or back into High Range is very difficult. There is lots of gear grinding and I end up turnig the vehicle off.

Furthermore, I tried again this morning and after playing with it, I get a clicking sound from the Automatic Transmission/Gear Shift everytime I press the brake when I'm in Park.

Any ideas on where to start?

[Pwnin O'Brien]

Furthermore, I tried again this morning and after playing with it, I get a clicking sound from the Automatic Transmission/Gear Shift everytime I press the brake when I'm in Park.

This is perfectly normal. This is the shift lock disengaging, allowing you to shift from park.

[Flyingdog]

This is perfectly normal. This is the shift lock disengaging, allowing you to shift from park.

I thought as much. However, why is it suddenly making so much noise and how do I fix it? Is the shift lock up in the lever or down in the transmission?

Any thoughts on the Low Range shifting problem?

[Flyingdog]

FSM has a section under AT on the Shift Lock. I'll try this tomorrow.

So, what about the Transfer problems ???

[Flyingdog]

does anyone think this is the answer?

zerothread?id=382123

[Flyingdog]

anyone?

[fueler]

the loud click when you touch the brake pedal while in park, is normal

as far as engaging, you need to make a swift move with the 4x4 stick and give it some muscle when you do it. This is a mechanical lever connected directly to the t-case, not some sissy electronic switch

[jdmartin820]

I have the exact same problem with my 2001, so I suspect it's something inherent to the design. Even in neutral there's ridiculous grinding. What I usually do is put it in neutral, shut the engine, put it in 4Lo and then restart the car.

[alexf20c]

there is nothing wrong with the design. all manual-shift transfer cases operate the same way. like fueler said, shift it quick and firm. it's ok to get a bit of grinding.

when you get good at it you can even do it without coming to a complete stop.

[Flyingdog]

I'll give it a go

[Pwnin O'Brien]

I just throw the A/T into neutral and just shift it to 4Lo in one swift motion, no grinding and no noises at all.

[josephdmartin8]

No disrespect, but I don't buy this explanation. I've driven 4wd all my life, all with manual Xfer cases save 1, have owned many different manufacturers including three other Nissan trucks, and have never had a grinding problem between 4H and 4L on any vehicle. I end up having to drop the car into neutral, shut it off, then pop it into 4L to avoid the grinding issue. This isn't right.