2007 Suburban stuck in 4 low

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mac_camper

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While cleaning my dash I accidentally turned the 4x4 dial to 4low and later when I drove out of the drive way, I was not able to get the transmission to switch to 2x2 or Auto. I checked the manual, but don't see any specific instructions to change from 4low other than turning the dial while driving which I was doing, but it is still in 4 low.

The lights on the hand dial do blink a few times, but it never changes from 4 low to anything else.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.
 
Try a "rolling" change...

From a complete stop,
Select 4WD-lo.
Get going about 10 MPH,
Shift the Transmission into Neutral,
Just as your forward speed drops below 5 MPH,
Select 4WD-hi.

It may take 15-20 seconds for it to change to 4WD-hi.
When it changes to hi, you'll hear a respectable "clunk".
That's not a bad thing.

You may have to repeat the above several times.
Just stop, select 4WD-lo,
Then do the above procedure again.

When you get it going again, you should always change in steps.
2x2 to 4WD-hi to 4WD-lo (confirm each change)
Then reverse that process to get back to 2x2.

90% of stubborn Transfer Cases are because of the lack of use. Many buy 4WD's and don't use them, then they get shellacked up. I'd suggest you do a Fluid Change on the Case, weather the above procedure works or not. That frequently will eliminate the sluggishness. and sometimes is just enough to make it start working again, if the above procedure is ineffective.

Use Auto Trak II (about 2 Quarts)

When you do get things working again, You need to set a schedule to use 4WD-lo on a regular basis. I put mine in 4Lo about once a month, and drive it at least one mile, just to make sure the Fluid is sufficiently circulated.
 
I've never owned a 4x4 since the days of the lock out hubs, but, what happens if you just turn the key on and press the button while sitting still? If nothing, then try starting it and just keeping it in park, press the button. IF neither one of those work, pop the fuse covers and see if you can find a fuse for the transfer case and pull it and reseat it a couple of times. If that doesn't work, try disconnecting the battery ground cable for about five minutes to reset the system. If none of that works, you need to find someone here or at a dealership that can tell you.
 
Thanks Chuzz,
I tried turning the dial while sitting still and it acts like it is changing to 2x2, but eventually goes back to 4 low. I tried driving slowly and turning it and still nothing changes. I will try the fuses if I can find them.

Any other suggestions is appreciated.

Thanks.
 
SWHouston,
Your instructions worked perfectly. I did as you said with the rolling change started in 4low, after driving 10mph, shifting to neutral, then changing the 4x4 dial from 4low to 4hi, heard the "clunk" moving into 4Hi, then after a few seconds dialed to Auto and it switched fine, then to 2x2 no problem. Issue resolved!!

I did the same before, but did not shift to neutral. Why is this key? I could not find it in the owner's manual. Just curious.

Thank you so much for the help.

You are right about the infrequent use of 4low. I have used 4Hi many times in the Illinois winter and when camping in a muddy terrain. I use it at least 6 times per year. I have only used 4low once when pulling my camper out of the mud.

I will be seeking a fluid change and use the 4 low at least once per year.

Thanks again!
 
mac_camper said:
I did the same before, but did not shift to neutral. Why is this key?

I will be seeking a fluid change and use the 4 low at least once per year.
Click to expand...

There are so many variables which occur. Having the pressure off of the gears as they rotate may ease the transfer (slider gears) to the required positions.

NO NO NO ! :D
HA, not once a YEAR, it's once a MONTH !!! ;)

PS:
Do that Fluid change asap ! :)

Also, you realize that changing into 4WD-lo, effectively increases your power almost three times !!
That's like engaging a 750 HP engine to power your vehicle.
(it doesn't actually increase your horse power, but the effect is the same)
 
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Yes, I will get the fluid changed quickly. And as you said ONCE A MONTH run in 4low and 4Hi. Thanks again.
 
mac_camper said:
Yes, I will get the fluid changed quickly. And as you said ONCE A MONTH run in 4low and 4Hi. Thanks again.
Click to expand...

Great !, and be sure to run it in 4LO for a mile or so, just to get the Fluid stirred up well.

Are you planning on Camping anytime soon, Towing your rig anywhere ?
 
Glad to see that someone knew what to tell you. I suggest you follow his advice too!
 
SW Houston,
I would be camping this time of year pulling my highwall pop up, but I am actually in the process of selling my 2007 Suburban LTZ. We sold our camper earlier this summer, so I am downsizing. I will miss my suburban.

Thanks again for your help.
 
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