'86 4kq diff locks/Propshaft

[frank j. bauer]

At 06:43 PM 3/10/2003, Huw Powell wrote:
>>How diff locks look like?
>
>the diff locks are little actuators on the side of the tranny (front
>left, sort of) and the rear diff.
>
>Actuated by vacuum, they also close a switch to light up your display.

actually, there are separate switches that will activate the lights.
the actuator moves the diff lock mechanism and the locking action closes
the switch.

so there are 2 things to check:
- if you activate the diff lock and drive in a tight circle on dry pavement
you will know if it is locked.
- if it's not locked, it's the vacuum supply (most likely a cracked rubber
hose somewhere) or the actuator (which can easily be tested by applying
vacuum to either side)
- if it is locked and the light is not on the switch needs replacing.
you can manually activate the diff lock to test the switch and indicator
light function.
make sure it's not a wiring/connection issue before you replace a switch.
(there are 3 similar-looking switches on the trans/diff that are for
reverse, 5th, and center diff lock indication)

frank