2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 4X4 Vacuum Switch-Any other options besides Dodge or Posi-Lock?

[Extreme1]

I think the switch is bad (diagnosis will confirm as I have time). I called the dealer, a new one lists for $220! Ouch! We (the TDR) do get a discount there but it's still a lot for what you get. NAPA doesn't have one, does anyone know of another source?

 

[KHelfrich]

i dont remember who makes it but there is a mechanical cable switch that can replace the vacume actuator on the front axle



ken

 

[Extreme1]

That's the Posi-Lock.

 

[kdcrockett]

I thought I had the same problem a couple of weeks ago. If the actuator was bad I was going to replace it with the manual set up. Actually, I would prefer that set up to avoid the occassional delay in axle engagement. As it turned out, my problem was with the vacuum line. Where the vacuum lines traverse the cross member area, they had rotted out. I live in a high salt use area and the front of the cross member acts as a collector for all that crud. Only cost a couple of dollars to fix.

 

[vssman]

1) Make sure you don't have any oil in the lines from the vacuum pump.

2) Do you think it's the CAD (motor) or the switch on the transfer case? If its the switch, then it's only 20-30 dollars (from memory).

3) Pull the CAD off and double check that it's good with a vac pump. While it's off, look at the locking slip ring in the axle. It should slide smoothly with no binding.



I think I threw out my old CAD. If I can find it, I'll PM you and pay it forward to ya...

 

[doldenburg]

where do i get a posi lock?

 

[Extreme1]

The vacuum motor is good and the vacuum tubes are good (I replaced a damaged one this summer). The '94's don't have the oil contamination problem but I will be checking that when I finish diagnosing the problem this weekend. I'm just looking for another source for the vacuum switch that mounts on the transfer case. It looks like a Dodge only part and based on the price, they're mighty proud of it. If it was available aftermarket it would only cost $40-$50.



Posi-locks can be gotten at many places, this is the first one I found. J. C. Whitney has them too.

 

[vssman]

I guess the vac switch on a 94 must be different from a 96. Mine was $21. 34 with tax. P/N 53001101 description: Switch-tra



Hope this helps

 

[wcjp]

I was having a vacuum problem at the TC. The rubber plug that connects to TC was loose fitting. I ran small extensions from the TC to rubber plug. I bought the plugins for the rubber boot in the HELP section at my local autoparts store. I fixed my vacuum problem for about $7.



There's a TDR member that sells a vacuum setup for 2wd Low. It's possible to rewire this kit to avoid the TC altogether. His parts can be sourced from other places. For the price what he sells is very convenient.