4WD "bumping" problem - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

johnbaker17 · 03-04-2004, 14:52

When in 4WD, my '03 Ranger makes a "bump" sound. The whole vehicle jerks when it happens. Dealership put 4 new tires on it and replaced the drive shaft with no improvement. "Bumping" is louder and harder when decelerating and does not occur when accelerating. Ranger has 28,000 miles on it. "Bumping" is most noticeable on dry pavement but occurs on other surfaces also (including gravel and snow). When switching back to 2WD, one last "bump" signifies the disengaging of the 4WD. Dealership techs have never seen this and don't know what to do. Help!

mongrelEB · 03-04-2004, 20:21

It's an electronic shift is it? Bumping is continuous, or just once?
I suggest it might be the transfer case slipping between engaged and disengaged on the front driveshaft for some reason. Perhaps the traction sensor system? Or something internal to the case. Don't know much about these though

so can't be too specific.

johnbaker17 · 03-05-2004, 07:41

Yeah, it's automatic trans. Bumping happens every 1/8 mile or so when driving steady. When decelerating, bumping happens every few seconds. I'll pass your suggestions on to the guys at Ford. If you have any other ideas, let me know. THANKS!

mongrelEB · 03-05-2004, 18:29

Good luck, it'a weird one alright!