when i put my truck in 4wd the lite on the dash doesnt come on. does anyone know if this is a common problem and if there is a way to fix it so the light turns back on when 4wd is on

 

check the switch on the axle its like in the middle of the axle tube on the front axle slightly to the right side two vacuum lines and a switch mabe the wires got ripped of

 

My sometimes take a long time to come on...same to say when you take it out of 4wd...takes a while to come off.

 

i replaced those pressure wires that go from the transfer case to the front axle and it made no difference so im curious does the gauge cluster have bulbs in the back that maybe need to be replaced or maybe even a fuse cause all the other lights light up but not that one?

 

Yep, if it never lights up at all, even when you first turn on the truck, I bet you're probably just looking at a burned out bulb.

I've heard of them burning out before, although its not to common. I'd definitely check it out.

 

Vacuum lines are rotted or plastic line is cracked. Could even be a CAD unit that needs servicing.
all easy stuff to do.

 

i'm going to disagree. the 4wd light does not come on when you turn the truck to on. it also does not come on during the gauge test ( turn sw on while holding odometer trip meter in, digital odo only).

to test the light, disconnect the elec connector from the end of the cad, and connect a jumper between the 2 contacts on the plug. light should come on.

this light is controlled by a contact or pressure switch inside the cad. when the shifting fork moves over towards the drivers side and connects the axles, it also depresses the plunger on the switch, which turns the light on.

a common problem with no light, but 4wd engaged - disconnect that elec switch and spray it with wd40 or contact cleaner. get all the mud, sand, etc out of the switch. it will work better. the switch can also be replaced for under $20 at most auto parts stores. mine didn't work because it was full of sand. easy fix.

http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/repair/..._engagment.htm
http://www.4x4wire.com/dodge/tech/solid_axle_cad/

Tim - your light coming on/off slowly is probably an indication that your shifting mechanism is very sluggish. typical of vac cad. the light is probably telling you the truth.

 

i assume that the electric switch is on the axle or by the transfer case? is that correct

 

4wd light switch is on the end of the CAD (central axle disconnect), drivers side. CAD is on the front axle housing, passenger side, has a vacuum looking thing hanging on it.

 

My apologies on that one. Thanks for "disagreeing" so politely.
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