Transfer case motor testing

Push the button to turn it on and use a test light to see which one lights up the test light.

Which 4X4 system does your tahoe have ?
Transfer Case System Description (Selectable 4WD)
The New Venture Gear Model NV243 is an electronically controlled optional transfer case for use on four wheel drive K trucks. The driver selects 2HI, 4HI, or 4LO by pushing one of three illuminating shift select buttons mounted on the instrument panel. The shift select buttons display the transfer case mode and range, self-test, diagnostic trouble codes, and electronic shift mechanical engaging problems.

Transfer Case System Description (Automatic 4WD)
The two speed Auto transfer case system utilizes a part time front axle. The system allows the driver to select the transfer case position with a touch of a button. The following positions can be selected: 4-wheel drive high range (4H), All Wheel Drive (AUTO), 2 Wheel Drive high range (2H), Neutral (N), and 4-Wheel Drive low range (4L).
The Auto Transfer Case (ATC) Control Module controls all the shifting action of the transfer case based on input from the driver as well as information from the Vehicle Control Module (VCM) /Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
4WD (4H or 4L) mode: This is accomplished by engaging the front axle, applying PWM to an electric motor to apply maximum torque, (fully compressing the transfer case clutch plates) to the front axle, then removing the ground on circuit 1569, thus locking the motor in position and stop the PWM to the motor.
AUTO mode: When in this mode of operation, the system should engage the front axle, then it monitors the front and rear propshaft speeds for any speed differences. When the system senses rear wheel slip, a difference of propshaft speed between front and rear, the Auto Transfer Case (ATC) Control Module will use pulse width modulation (PWM) to drive an electric motor. This motor transfers only the required torque to the front wheels to gain additional traction on slippery surfaces up to 75 mph. There is no torque applied to the front wheels until the module senses rear wheel slip.
Throttle anticipation (only operational when in AUTO mode): If the vehicle is below 5 mph and the accelerator is pressed quickly beyond a set point, the system will automatically transfer a percentage of torque to the front wheels to help prevent the rear wheels from slipping, as in a hard acceleration from a stopped position.
The Auto Transfer Case (ATC) Control Module also has the capability of engaging the front axle while the vehicle is in motion. It does this by applying PWM to the electric motor to apply torque to the front axle, this action is used to match the speed of the front and rear propshafts. After the module senses the proper speed, it then supplies a ground on circuit 1570 to engage the front axle.
The Auto Transfer Case (ATC) Control Module will accept a mode shift only when the engine is running and a valid Motor/Encoder signal is present. A mode shift is any shift between 2H, 4H, and AUTO.
The Auto Transfer Case (ATC) Control Module will permit a range shift only if the following conditions are met within 30 seconds of the request:

Automatic 4WD Diagnostic Aids
A Scan Tool reads and displays the following information:
• Diagnostic Trouble code(s)
• Code status bit (are codes set or not)
• Transfer case lock status
• Lamp in the switch/lamp assembly
• Motor/Encoder gear position
• Ignition (3) voltage
• Front propshaft speed sensor (KPH)
• Front axle switch (open/closed)
• Front axle requested position (engaged/disengaged)
• Rear propshaft speed sensor (KPH)
• Mode switch position request
• Park switch (open/closed)
• 4WD (Adapt) Mode Auto bit
• Current Mode corrective action PWM
• Average and highest PWM applied during last slip recovery event
• Throttle anticipation mode
• Average and highest PWM applied during last Throttle anticipation corrective action event
• Difference between front and rear propshaft RPM
• Adapt event counter
• Throttle position sensor percentage

Check the transfer case shift control module for DTC's. The transfer case shift control module is not a class 2 device. DTC's are displayed on the transfer case shift control switch. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Displaying .
Are any DTC's present?
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Displaying
The transfer case shift control module is equipped with the ability to store diagnostic information, which is useful to a technician in the event of module, component or wiring failures. This information can be retrieved from the transfer case shift control module by way of flash codes, which are displayed on the three transfer case shift control switch buttons. These buttons are located on the instrument panel to the right of the steering wheel Before obtaining DTCs, perform the following transfer case control module (TCCM) Self-Test.
TCCM Self-Test
Observe the transfer case shift control switch indicators while turning the ignition switch to RUN. A properly operating system will flash all indicators and then will return to the current gear. If the system is operating normally, then proceed to Displaying Codes.
If the TCCM failed the Self-Test, then test the following circuits.
• Battery Positive Voltage (40 and 1640), and Ignition 3 Voltage for battery voltage
• Ground Circuit for ground
• Diagnostic enable circuit for an open or high resistance
• Transfer case shift control switch connector
If the above circuits are normal but the TCCM still fails the Self-Test, replace the TCCM. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .
DTC Displaying
Turn OFF the ignition for 10 seconds.
Connect PIN 13 on the data link cable (DLC) to a ground. The DLC is located in the cab under the instrument panel on the driver's side.
Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
Observe the transfer case shift control switch select buttons for flashing codes. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List .
Important: If the transfer case shift control switch buttons all blink only once and then stop, no fault codes are stored in the transfer case shift control module.
• When one DTC is stored in memory, that code will blink that number of times followed by a 3 second pause and then repeat.
• If more than one code is stored, the first code will blink, followed by a 3 second pause and then the second code will blink.
• This sequence will continue until PIN 13 on the DLC is no longer grounded.
• If the TCCM will not communicate the presence or absence of DTCs, test the above circuits in Self-Test Step 2. If the circuits are complete, then replace the TCCM. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .

The most common problem with these would be the transfer case 4x4 actuator motor or also called transfer case selector motor, testing would be a good thing to do before replacing it.

replace the electric motor on the transfer case

The New Venture Gear Model NV233 is an electronically controlled optional transfer case for use on four wheel drive T trucks. The driver selects 2HI, 4HI, or 4LO by pushing one of three illuminating shift select buttons mounted on the instrument panel. The shift select buttons display the transfer case mode and range, self-test, diagnostic trouble codes, and electronic shift mechanical engaging problems.
During normal driving the transfer case is in the 2HI mode. When the transfer case is in the 2HI mode. When the transfer case is in 2HI both the 4HI and 4LO switch circuits are open, and both lights are OFF. When the four-wheel drive shift select button has been pressed, the four-wheel drive indicator lamp under the sift select button turns ON when the front axle has engaged. The shift select button will blink while the front axle is engaging. This is a normal condition.
The shifting of the transfer case is performed by a motor/encoder that receives drive signals from the transfer case control module (TCCM). When the driver selects one of the transfer case shift select buttons, request signals are sent to the TCCM. If the correct input signals exists, the TCCM will send drive voltages to the motor/encoder. The motor/encoder will position the transfer case to the ordered shift position.

Transfer Case Control Module Description
The TCCM performs the following functions:
• Receives input signals
• Processes the signal information
• Develops output signals
• Sends the output signal in order to control the shifting of the transfer case
The TCCM receives input signals from the following sources:
• The transfer case shift select buttons
• The NSBU switch on the vehicles with automatic transmissions
• The clutch position switch on the vehicles with manual transmissions
• The vehicle sped sensor calibrator module
• The encoder/motor range and the mode feedback signals
• The diagnostic enable
• The front axle mechanical status signal
In order to ensure the electronic shift system is operating properly, the transfer case control module (TCCM) continually performs diagnostics checks on itself and other parts of the electronic shift system when the ignition switch is in the run position. The following are different types of system checks that the TCCM continually performs.
Data Memory Retention Check
The TCCM checks the stored diagnostic trouble code memory to see if the memory has changed since the ignition switch was last positioned to OFF. This self test checks in order to see if the RAM standby power supply has been interrupted. If the TCCM detects a RAM standby power supply interruption, (the loss of stored diagnostic trouble code) the TCCM stores a DTC of 1 indicating RAM standby power failure.
This condition occurs when the TCCM is disconnected from the wiring harness or battery power is removed. The DTC of 1 automatically clears from the TCCM after cycling the ignition switch ON and OFF five times.

Before replacing parts you should test the system !
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Displaying
The transfer case shift control module is equipped with the ability to store diagnostic information, which is useful to a technician in the event of module, component or wiring failures. This information can be retrieved from the transfer case shift control module by way of flash codes, which are displayed on the three transfer case shift control switch buttons. These buttons are located on the instrument panel to the right of the steering wheel Before obtaining DTCs, perform the following transfer case control module (TCCM) Self-Test.
TCCM Self-Test
Observe the transfer case shift control switch indicators while turning the ignition switch to RUN. A properly operating system will flash all indicators and then will return to the current gear. If the system is operating normally, then proceed to Displaying Codes.
If the TCCM failed the Self-Test, then test the following circuits.
• Battery Positive Voltage (40 and 1640), and Ignition 3 Voltage for battery voltage
• Ground Circuit for ground
• Diagnostic enable circuit for an open or high resistance
• Transfer case shift control switch connector
If the above circuits are normal but the TCCM still fails the Self-Test, replace the TCCM. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .
DTC Displaying
Turn OFF the ignition for 10 seconds.
Connect PIN 13 on the data link cable (DLC) to a ground. The DLC is located in the cab under the instrument panel on the driver's side.
Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
Observe the transfer case shift control switch select buttons for flashing codes. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List .
Important: If the transfer case shift control switch buttons all blink only once and then stop, no fault codes are stored in the transfer case shift control module.
• When one DTC is stored in memory, that code will blink that number of times followed by a 3 second pause and then repeat.
• If more than one code is stored, the first code will blink, followed by a 3 second pause and then the second code will blink.
• This sequence will continue until PIN 13 on the DLC is no longer grounded.
• If the TCCM will not communicate the presence or absence of DTCs, test the above circuits in Self-Test Step 2. If the circuits are complete, then replace the TCCM. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .

Is the 4WD fuse # 15 -10 amp located in the I/P fuse box good ?

How about to the switch , is there battery power ? Fuse #15 FWD 10amp. I/P fuse panel . BCM - body control module light's the switch indicators 2hi, 4hi,4low . Check fuse #6 10amp I/P fuse panel .
DTC 002
The transfer case encoder motor is an assembly which houses four separate channels. These channels are used to indicate to the transfer case shift control module the present gear position of the transfer case or if the transfer case is in transition between gears. The encoder motor assembly consists of an electronically conductive inner ground ring in contact with a three legged wiper arm. Each leg's length is such that it makes contact with the conductive regions of the four channels. When any leg of the wiper arm is making contact with the conductive area of any channel, the encoder provides a path to ground to the inner ground ring.
During electronic shifting, the transfer case shift control module monitors the transfer case encoder circuit for the proper operating sequence. If at any time during a shift, the encoder changes from one position to any position other than the next possible position, an error counter in the transfer case shift control module increments by four. After the counter reaches 32, the transfer case shift control module set a DTC 2, a permanent "encoder fault," and reverts to a 2HI to 4LO or a 4LO to 2HI shift pattern only. To guard against a transient, random encoder fault due to vibration, dirt, electrical noise, etc., the fault counter reduces by one each time the transfer case shift control module detects a valid encoder value. The encoder must intermittently fail 25 percent of the time for the transfer case shift control module to consider it faulty and store DTC 2.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
This step measures the voltage between the transfer case encoder circuit channels P, A, B, and C to ground.
This step tests the suspect circuit(s) for an open, short to power, or short to ground.
This step tests the encoder signal ground circuit for an open or high resistance.
DTC 2 -- Encoder Fault Step
Action
Value(s)
Yes
No
Schematic Reference: Transfer Case Control Schematics
1
Important: Check the transfer case shift control module for DTCs. The transfer case shift control module is not a class 2 device. DTCs are displayed on the transfer case shift control switch. Use the following four steps to obtain DTCs.
Turn OFF the ignition for 10 seconds.
Connect PIN 13 on the data link cable (DLC) to a ground. The DLC is located in the cab under the instrument panel on the driver's side.
Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
Observe the transfer case shift control switch select buttons for flashing codes.
Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Transfer Case?
--
YES - Go to Step 2
NO - Go to Diagnostic System Check
2
Disconnect the connector at the encoder motor.
Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
Measure the voltage between the transfer case encoder circuit channels P, A, B, and C to ground.
Does the voltage measure near the specified value?
4.8-5.1 V
YES - Go to Step 4
NO --Go to Step 3
3
Test the suspect circuit for an open, short to power, or short to ground. Refer to General Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
YES - Go to Step 8
NO - Go to Step 7
4
Turn the ignition switch OFF.
Test the encoder signal ground circuit for an open or high resistance. Refer to General Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
YES - Go to Step 8
NO - Go to Step 5
5
With a DMM at the transfer case module connector probe the encoder sign ground pin and ensure a good ground path through the module.
Did the DMM indicate a good ground path?
--
YES - Go to Step 6
NO - Go to Step 7
6
Replace the transfer case encoder motor. Refer to Motor/Encoder Replacement .
YES - Did you complete the replacement?
--
NO - Go to Step 8
--
7
Replace the transfer case shift control module. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .
YES - Did you complete the replacement?
--
NO - Go to Step 8
--
8
Clear all DTCs from memory. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Clearing .
Operate the vehicle while pressing each of the buttons on the transfer case shift control switch.
Does the DTC reset?
--
YES - Go to Step 2
NO - System OK

replace the vacuum switc on the left side of the transfer case, should have 2 vacuum lines to it

2-Speed Torque-On-Demand (TOD) Operation
The automatic 4-wheel drive (A4WD) system is a 2-speed torque-on-demand (TOD) operation that utilizes the following components:

• Transfer case
• 4-wheel drive (4WD) control module (integral to the powertrain control module [PCM])
• Mode select switch (MSS)
• Gearmotor encoder assembly (part of the transfer case shift motor)
• Transfer case shift motor
• Shift motor sense plate (part of the gearmotor encoder assembly)

Principles of Operation
Transfer Case Shift Motor The externally mounted transfer case shift motor, located at the rear of the transfer case, turns the shift cam assembly. As the shift cam assembly turns, it positions the reduction shift fork for desired transfer case operation. An integral position sensor in the shift motor provides shift motor position information to the 4WD control module.
Mode Select Switch (MSS) The push button MSS, mounted on the instrument panel, allows the operator to select the 4x4 Auto, 4x4 High, and 4x4 Low transfer case operating modes. The indicator light, on the instrument cluster push button, will illuminate only when the 4x4 Low position is engaged.
Visual Inspection Chart Mechanical Electrical

• Axle shafts and CV joints
• Driveshaft and universal joints
• Fluid leaks
• Matching tire sizes
• Transfer case shift motor

• Battery junction box (BJB) fuses:
  • 8 (30A)
  • 17 (5A)
  • 18 (20A)
• Central junction box (CJB) fuses:
  • 12 (5A)
  • 24 (15A)
• 4x4 module (PCM)
• Wiring harness
• Gearmotor encoder contact plate
• Connector(s)
• Circuitry
• Mode indication switch (MSS)

1. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.

1. If the concern is not visually evident, connect the diagnostic tool to the data link connector and select the vehicle to be tested from the diagnostic tool menu. If the diagnostic tool does not communicate with the vehicle:
   • check that the program card is correctly installed.
   • check the connections to the vehicle.
   • check the ignition switch position.

1. If the diagnostic tool still does not communicate with the vehicle, refer to the diagnostic tool operating manual.

1. Carry out the diagnostic tool data link test. If the diagnostic tool responds with:
   • CAN circuit fault; all electronic control units no response/not equipped, refer to Section 418-00 .
   • No response/not equipped for 4WD module (PCM), Go To Pinpoint Test G .
   • System passed, retrieve and record the continuous diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), erase the continuous DTCs and carry out the 4WD module (PCM) self test.

1. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to the 4WD Control Module (PCM) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index to continue diagnostics. 4WD Control Module (PCM) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index
   DTC Description Source Action B1317 Battery Voltage HIGH 4WD Module (PCM) REFER to Section 414-00 . B1318 Battery Voltage LOW 4WD Module (PCM) REFER to Section 414-00 . B1319 Driver Door Ajar Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . B1322 Driver Door Ajar Circuit Short To Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . B1342 ECU is Defective 4WD Module (PCM) CLEAR the DTCs. REPEAT the 4x4 module (PCM) self test. If DTC B1342 is retrieved, INSTALL a new 4x4 module (PCM). REFER to Section 303-14 . CLEAR the DTCs. REPEAT the self test. B1483 Brake Pedal Input Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . B1485 Brake Pedal Input Short to Battery 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . C1729 Transfer Case Unable to Transition Between 4H and 4L 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . C1970 4WD Low Mode Switch LED Short to Battery 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . C1971 4WD Low Mode Switch LED Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1707 Transfer Case NEUTRAL or PARK/NEUTRAL Indication Circuit 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . P1812 Transmission 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1815 Transmission 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Short Circuit to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1816 Transmission NEUTRAL Safety Switch Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . P1819 Transmission NEUTRAL Safety Switch Circuit Short to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test M . P1820 Transfer Case Clockwise Shift Relay Coil Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1822 Transfer Case Clockwise Shift Relay Coil Circuit Short To Battery 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1824 4-Wheel Drive Clutch Relay Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test H . P1826 4-Wheel Drive Low Clutch Relay Short Circuit to Battery 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test H . P1827 4-Wheel Drive Low Clutch Relay Short Circuit to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test H . P1828 Transfer Case Counterclockwise Shift Relay Coil Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1830 Transfer Case Counterclockwise Shift Relay Coil Circuit Short To Battery 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1849 Transfer Case Contact Plate A Short Circuit to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1853 Transfer Case Contact Plate B Short Circuit to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1857 Transfer Case Contact Plate C Short Circuit to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1861 Transfer Case Contact Plate D Short Circuit to Ground 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1867 Transfer Case Contact Plate General Circuit Failure 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . P1891 Transfer Case Contact Plate Ground Return Open Circuit 4WD Module (PCM) Go To Pinpoint Test K . U1900 CAN Communication BUS Fault 4WD Module (PCM) REFER to Section 418-00 . U2023 External Node Fault 4WD Module (PCM) REFER to Section 418-00 . U2051 One Or More Calibration Files Missing/Corrupt 4WD Module (PCM) Reprogram/Reflash the 4x4 module. REFER to Section 418-00 . - For All Other DTCs 4WD Module (PCM) REFER to Section 418-00 .
2. Your best bet mite be to take it to a qualified repair shop !

i have a 1993 blazer 4.3 w code 4x4 with a 4L60 E . my truck wouldn;t go in 4 hi or low. so i changed the transfer case motor and it works fine now. If you turn the ignition key to on but not crank the engine and open the driver door and push 4 hi button, you should hear the transfer case motor cycle for 3 or 4 seconds every time you push button and the light will flash until it goes in 4wd If the 4 hi button light doesn't flash during cycle then it could be a bad switch. if the transfer case motor won't cycle it could be a fuse or a bad transfer case motor . Hope this answers your question.
pgale89

sounds like the transfer case has gone bad and needs to be rebuilt. if it is a newer style blazer (late 90's or newer) with the push button transfer case it could be the motor that shifts the transfer case is bad or not install right.