Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Motor, Shift: Operation
Shifting in the transfer case occurs when a Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) voltage is supplied to the shift motor (3) by the Drive Train Control Module (DTCM). A linear analog position sensor (Encoder) (2) located on the rear transfer case housing, provides the DTCM with the motors' angular, rotational position. With this information, the DTCM continuously knows the motors' position, and therefore allows it to accurately control the motors' operation, including voltage polarity which is used to control motor direction.
The electronically controlled wet clutch pack uses an electric motor to actuate an internal geartrain, clutch cam, and low range barrel cam. The clutch cam actuates the clutch levers that apply normal force to the multi-disc wet clutch pack. The clutch disks are alternately splined to the front and rear outputs. When normal force is applied to this clutch pack, torque is transferred to equalize speed differences between front and rear axles.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.