Re: 86 4kq fornt diff won't lock

[VINCELYONS@aol.com]

In a message dated 97-04-16 16:18:32 EDT, you replied to:

<< <<The front differential on my 4kq will not lock. When you turn the diff
lock
 knob to the "1" position, nothing happens - no led light up, no noises -
 nothing.>> <snip>

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 Make sure of "no noises" by moving the knob to the "1" position and then
 turning your car tightly (full lock) on dry pavement. If you hear/feel a
 rumbling that isn't normally there-the center diff. is locking and just the
 indicator is dead.
 
 If the lock truly isn't engaging, the actuater is vacuum controlled and
 mounted on the rear differential. This actuater engages the center
 differential lock via a cable linkage.  >>

Mike,

The front (aka: center) vac.motor is located in an inaccessable 
spot in front of the steering rack below the battery box,
on top of trans, under a tin cover on an '86 4kq. As I recall 
the tin cover is a particular pain, several cap screws w/
a 10mm or 8mm head or something. It was a mid year
change in '85.  '84 & early '85 4kq's have the cable linkage you
describe. 

By applying a vacuum source you can see if it will hold, 
sometimes you can do this just by moving them into a  
position, plugging the port with your finger and seeing if it 
holds or "leaks down". Be cautious, on a '85 4kq I once had
I didn't give the penetrating oil enough time on the rusted
lever on the rear diff and broke the plastic housing of what was a 
perfectly good ( and expensive ) vacuum motor. 

Vince Lyons