Dodge Ram 1994-2001: How to Put Your Truck in 4WD

This article applies to the 2nd Generation Dodge Ram (1994-2001).

First and foremost, it's never a good idea to run your truck in 4-wheel drive on dry pavement. The 4WD system was designed for a certain amount of slippage, which can only occur on wet or frozen surfaces such as slush, snow, mud, and ice. During heavy rainstorms, you may find that the rear tires "break loose," especially when your truck's bed is empty. So it is acceptable to use 4WD in heavy rain, but be sure to return to 2WD as soon as the pavement begins to dry.

Additionally, when towing a boat or jet ski trailer out of the water or pulling a friend's car out of a ditch, it's OK to use 4WD to get the job done. However, never use 4WD to tow the trailer or car long distances as this can severely shorten the life of the transfer case gears and cause a decrease in fuel economy. Because this drivetrain system was designed for specific road conditions, you should be aware of how to properly use it. The last thing you'd want to do when shifting into 4WD is to grind the gears, especially if someone is watching.

So, how do you switch into (or out of) 4WD? Let's explore when and how to change the transfer case gears into "4WD High" and "4WD Low" without making your Dodge Ram sound like a giant coffee grinder.

Step 1 – Shift from 2WD High to 4WD High

You can easily switch into 4WD High (4H) from 2WD High (2H) while moving at speeds up to 40 mph. Or, you can stop your truck, apply the brakes, and shift it while in neutral.

To engage the 4H range when on the move, let off the throttle, and then simply push the lever into 4H mode. In manually shifted transmissions, a 4WD light will illuminate on your dash. In electronically shifted trucks (newer Ram models), the 4WD light will flash as the gears engage, but will turn solid as soon as the engagement is complete.

Figure 1 below displays a newer Dodge Ram transfer case shifter. If you have the older style shifter, you may have a long throw from 2H to 4H. And if so, a long, smooth push without stopping is your best bet.

Step 2 – Shifting from 2WD High to 4WD Low

You should only shift your truck into 4L (4WD Low) when the truck is at a stop and the transmission is in neutral. You could experience severe grinding if you attempt to change gears to 4L with the transmission in park. Putting your transmission into neutral (while applying your brakes) is the best way to approach switching in and out of 4L.

Step 3 – Placing the transfer case into neutral

To shift the transfer case into neutral, your truck must be at a complete stop and the engine must be off. Flip the ignition key into the "on" position without starting the engine, and then shift the transfer case into the neutral position.

Related Discussion

• How to Put Your Truck in 4 Wheel Drive - DodgeForum.com