2020 Ram 1500 wont engage 4x4, -- likely the front axle disconnect solenoid?

Rand

Rand

Joined
Aug 20, 2003
Messages
23,713
Location
NE,Ohio
So the 2020 ram wont go into 4x4.
I think its the solenoid not engaging the front axle disconnect ( passenger side)
They did a great job of putting it right under the oil filter.
I watched a few youtube videos.. and it seems fairly easy..
For people who have replaced these...
Anything to watch out for/tips?

Also is it worth 400$ for OEM vs $120 for a dorman (or similarly priced other brands on rockauto?)
1754862153324.webp

https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-600-399-Wheel-Differential-Actuator/dp/B01D8VMBYU
 
Well first do some troubleshooting. Make sure the front d/s freewheels in 2hi and locks in in 4hi.

Also you should be able to elevate the side locked in by the CAD and verify engagement -- or lack thereof. I'd also check for a command signal at the CAD connector.

On GMT800s you're not supposed to engage the CAD when not installed because allegedly it can over-travel, but then LOTS of guys do and it doesn't seem to actually hurt anything. The GM units can be easily jumpered +/- to see if they move. Not sure about Dodge wiring but I'd find a way to test first.
 
D60 said:
Well first do some troubleshooting. Make sure the front d/s freewheels in 2hi and locks in in 4hi.
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It wont go into 4high, 4 low, or 4 auto just blinks. Not sure how I am supposed to accomplish putting it into 4high.
no codes set.
I have 1/2 day to look at it. next week I will have the replacement part here. when I dig into it.
Realistically if that's not it .. it will go to an actual mechanic somewhere. I don't have the time or place to do much more.
 
SC Maintenance said:
Flashing 4wd light on my Nissan indicates a code.

Do you have a reader that will read that system? Nissan has a dance dance dance revolution procedure where it will flash the codes in the dash.
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it always flashes while changing into 4wd.. it just never stops flashing and doesnt engage.
until you hit 2wd again.
In this case flashing indicates its shifting into or out of 4wd.
I have obdlink mx nothing fancy or bi-directional.
 
Rand said:
It wont go into 4high, 4 low, or 4 auto just blinks. Not sure how I am supposed to accomplish putting it into 4high.
no codes set.
I have 1/2 day to look at it. next week I will have the replacement part here. when I dig into it.
Realistically if that's not it .. it will go to an actual mechanic somewhere. I don't have the time or place to do much more.
Click to expand...
Then you can still see if there's anything happening at the CAD connector and test the CAD yourself.

You began the thread already leaning toward the CAD. I'm suggesting looking for evidence to back up your premise. Or you can slap a new one in and hope. It works sometimes.
 
I had problems with hub engagement on my 94. They used a vacuum actuator back then and mine had a bent shift rod. Replaced it and all was well. Very simple job to replace. Just like this one, 4 small bolts and the whole assembly comes off. I’d pull it off and inspect for damage. If nothing obvious is found, the Dorman replacement is cheap enough to try. If that does fix the problem and it comes back after a while, go with OEM.
 
I'd put it on jackstands and then make sure it's actually shifting the transfer case into gear before looking at the axle disconnect.

If it's just blinking I'd think it's an issue wit the electronic shift transfer case.
 
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