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Lt_JWS
12-05-2013, 08:14 PM
My service 4x4 light has been on and off randomly and I have a code about the front diff. circuit open. Who has replaced it and how long did it take? I hoping to to get it installed before the "big" ice storm that is suppose to hit Sunday ;)

lekmedm
12-06-2013, 07:51 AM
What's the code?

I have a thread somewhere about my service 4x4 message with code that was solved by replacing the solenoid AND diff harness. If the info isn't here, I must have it over on JC.com.

Matt
12-06-2013, 07:58 AM
If you're getting an open circuit code id check the plug/wiring first as Mark mentioned he had to replace the harness on his.

A quick resistance check of the solenoid would tell you if it's the culprit or not. Adam helped me look up the resistance when we were figuring out his QDII swap wiring...ill have to see if I can dig that up

Lt_JWS
12-06-2013, 02:27 PM
Don't remember the code right off, but I did the test for the code and connected a test light to the unplugged harness and commanded it up and down and the light output varied so it said replace the solenoid. I ordered both the harness and the solenoid to be safe and it was only around $60 for both parts so I figured i'd be safe and replace both.

07JeepXK
12-07-2013, 02:21 PM
I replaced the solenoid in my front ELSD but I did it with the front differential out of the vehicle. It took only a few minutes to swap in the new one. As far as doing it with the differential installed in the vehicle I couldn't tell you. If you can get the diff cover off and get up in there I'm sure you could probably swap it out while it's still in the vehicle. I'm just not sure if there is enough room to get in there.

Matt
12-07-2013, 02:29 PM
If you disconnect the driveshaft and the diff mounts you could probably rotate the pinion up so the covers facing down and get to it that way. I'd try that before taking the front end apart to pull the CV's out.

07JeepXK
12-07-2013, 05:24 PM
Good call. That's what I did to replace all three diff bushings on my old QT II diff

lekmedm
12-07-2013, 08:19 PM
You don't need to disconnect anything other than the front diff cover. You just have to have the suspension at full droop. I've done it. Disconnecting other parts may facilitate, but I'd try simple first.

Sent from wherever my Jeep takes me.

Matt
12-07-2013, 08:33 PM
The front diff doesn't move with the front suspension so that shouldn't matter (except to lift the front of the jeep higher for more working room).

So there's enough clearance with the crossmember to remove the front diff cover? Very good to know

lekmedm
12-07-2013, 09:31 PM
Umm... OK, maybe suspension droop isn't necessary, but wheels off the ground probably helps when rotating the diff. Anyway, that's what I was told they did it at the dealership, and it worked. I guess it won't work for me now with the SL front crossmember, though.

Matt
12-07-2013, 09:43 PM
Yeah, to rotate the diff you need the front tires off the ground.... you also need to disconnect the front driveshaft and differential mounts which is what I was recommending.

The same process will still work for you with the superlift.

Lt_JWS
12-08-2013, 07:19 AM
Just put it in last night, took some pics along the way, The pics are a little vague .... I think i'll make a guide.

1. Remove front skid plate(13mm)Disconnect the electrical connector for and the vent hose from the differential.
2. Drain front differential.
3. Remove front differential mount from body and from the front differential cover.(18,17,16mm)
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/31/gpz9.jpg/)

4.Remove front differential mount on passenger side extension housing, this should give you enough room to gain access to the cover bolts.(18,16mm)
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/607/1rnw.jpg/)

5. Remove front differential cover and let the remaining fluid drain and clean up the old RTV silicon on both the differential and cover.17,18mm?)
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/203/grx4.jpg/)

6. Remove 10mm bolt holding the wiring harness and disconnect the harness from the solenoid.
7.Remove the front differential solenoid by pressing the snap ring together and prying/pulling up on the old solenoid.
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/19/nz59.jpg/)

8 .Before installing the new solenoid lubricate the new o-ring with something, I prefer Vaseline. Install by pressing the snap ring together and pressing down on the solenoid making sure the snap ring goes into the groves of the case.
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/707/e2sh.jpg/)

9. Install the new wiring harness and connect the electrical connector to the solenoid, It was a very tight fit and required some extra force by a set of pliers.
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/191/s5j2.jpg/)

10. Using your RTV silicon of choice re-install the front differential cover.
11. Re-install the differential mounts and fill differential to the proper level. Test drive vehicle, If all is well and you don't have any leaks the re-install the front skid plate and enjoy your jeep!

Matt
12-08-2013, 07:25 AM
Good stuff man! Definitely make a write up of that; it'll come in useful...

It's good to see you got enough clearance by unbolting the diff mounts and didn't have to take the driveshaft off.

lekmedm
12-08-2013, 08:40 AM
Great write up, but did this solve your issue??? Is the warning message gone?

Sent from wherever my Jeep takes me.

Lt_JWS
12-08-2013, 03:18 PM
Great write up, but did this solve your issue??? Is the warning message gone?

Sent from wherever my Jeep takes me.

Yes, no more service 4x4 light, Don't know if you can tell but the picture of the new and old solenoid the harness broke by pulling on it gently. I probably didn't even need the solenoid but i'd rather be safe than sorry :)

Lt_JWS
12-09-2013, 08:08 PM
The code was "C1417" FYI

lekmedm
12-09-2013, 08:45 PM
The code was "C1417" FYI

Yep... I believe I had the same. I'm glad it worked out for you.


Sent from wherever my Jeep takes me.