I used 4X4 mode (extra low) today for the first time since just after I got the truck, and it behaved strangely. I thought I would seek the wisdom of the hive mind for thoughts. When you put this thing in Ex-Low it automatically goes into 4x4. This works fine. I maneuvered into position as needed and shifted into 1st as soon as I didn't need 4x4 or low any more. There was a lot of drag in the drive mechanism, and it felt like something was jamming or binding. I eased back, then fwd, then back again, and finally there was a significant "thump" and all is well again. Anyone know what this is? Is it common? I was turning tightly at the time I was in ex-low and still turning a lot when I shifted to 1st. The thump that released it happened after a few seconds of straight back and forth. The thump was kinda ugly. It sounded like I was really straining something there.
I think it can take a few seconds/feet to actually disengage the 4WD, and there will be a noticeable "thump" when it kicks out (usually). I would also suggest getting it pointed in a straight line before engaging/disengaging 4WD. Due to the extreme angles the tires can turn, it can put a lot of stress on the front drive components (try doing tight circles on dry pavement in 4WD and 2WD) and possibly jam it up a bit. Once you straighten out and shift into 1st, it shouldn't be more than 10 feet or so before you hear/feel it disengage and the light will go out and you're back to 2WD. Just a note, the 4WD solenoid shares a fuse with the fuel pump.
