My 4x4 switch inside won't light up and when i turn the switch, the 4 wheel drive wont work. i dont know where a relay or fuse is at because it seems like the power is just out to the switch on the dash

What fuse blows ? The four wheel drive switch is a input to the GEM - generic electronic control module , low voltage ! There are a few different relays, a shift motor on the transfer case . There could be DTC'S - diagnostic trouble codes stored in the GEM module . You can find free wiring diagrams at http://www.bbbind.com/free_tsb.html Do you know how to do basic automotive electrical testing ? When you turn the switch to engage the 4X4 , the GEM see's that input an then energizes a relay to engage the 4X4 . Knowing which fuse blows would cut down on the guess work !

I really don't know quite how to tell you this. Everything seems to be working just fine buy your question. When your using 4 wheel drive, you engage the hubs first, then push the 4 wheel drive button or turn the switch. Ease it in and out of gear or shift on the move and you should be in 4 wheel drive at this point. To take it out of 4 wheel drive, reverse this procedure. Turn the switch off and ease forward and you will be out of 4 wheel drive. If your not going to use your 4x4, turn the hubs out to reduce ware on the axles. If you will be using 4x4 again soon, leave the hubs in and all you have to do is turn the switch to 4x4 and your set to go. I hope I explained this well enough. Good luck.

ford ranger 1990
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could be relay or a 4x4 fuse bad ground damaged wires

If the transfer case is engaging, try it in 4X4 low foot on the brake and other on the gas (power braking) and you can get the rear tires to break loose your 4 wheel drive actuator switch is bad, a common problem on these 4X4's. It is a simple repair and is located on the front differential.

try selecting from nutreul or less then 3km

if your dash is not lighting up , check your tail lights
they are often on the same circut
if these are out you can be sure its a fuse

your drive shaft thats turning is mabe broke or your automatic 4x4 lockers could be bad

try changing the vacum switch on the trafer case

Depending on your vehicle make, you may need to be in D2 or D3 (or reverse) prior to your automatic 4 wheel or all wheel drive kicking in.