Rear Diff Lock Question

[richg]

Which part of the rear diff locker actuator mechanism sends the signal to the dash that the locker is fully engaged?

I've noticed that my rear diff lock light continues to blink, even though the locker is engaged. I tested it multiple times, the locker is engaging, but the light on the dash never goes solid anymore.

Rich

 

[neoworm]

Not to question you're mechanical abilities but how exactly did you determine that the locker is actually engaging? Did you jack the rear of the truck off the ground. If the locker is engaged then both wheels should rotate in the same direction. If one wheel is off the ground and one on the ground then you should not be able to turn the wheel in the air.

Often the locker will SOUND like it is engaging but isn't because the motor just preloads a spring.

The switch that sends the signal to the light is very simple and actuated when the the locker arm slides into position.

It's pretty common for the locker mechanism to fail and not the switch. If it is the switch it is round and sits at the top of the motor assy and has two wires coming out of it. Can't remember the colors.

 

[richg]

I jacked up the rear of the truck with the trans in neutral. Turned on rear locker and then spun a rear wheel until it engaged.

What was concerning me more was if the locker was indeed not engaging fully as I am not well versed on the design of this style of lockup -- have never had a problem with it so never have had to take anything apart. ie, am I going to have a hard mechanical failure if the locker is only engaged part way and the diff sees some significant loading.

rich

 

[spressomon]

Which part of the rear diff locker actuator mechanism sends the signal to the dash that the locker is fully engaged?

I've noticed that my rear diff lock light continues to blink, even though the locker is engaged. I tested it multiple times, the locker is engaging, but the light on the dash never goes solid anymore.

Rich

I recently had the same problem: Diff was locking but the dash light continued to blink. Pulled the whimpy (note to Christo: Extend a plate on your diff locker skid plate to cover the switch ) sheet metal cover from the switch on the diff housing and discovered a severed wire at the switch.

 

[neoworm]

Ya most likely culprit is the wire then. If it is engaging I doubt it's not engaging fully. The electric motor loads a spring and when the splines on the collar line up the pressure from the spring forces the collar on. Theres quite a bit of force. Pull the sheet metal cover off and have a look at those wires. Good luck.

 

[hoser]

Remove, test, lube and work the rear diff lock switch.

 

[richg]

n/m, see hoser's diagram now.

rich