4wd encoder sensor replacement

[05brokchevy]

Wanted to make everyone aware.

Condition: 4wd on 2005 silverado acting up. Not working, no lights on push button switches, sometimes neutral light on, earlier symtoms would not go into 4wd. Finally, quite and gave Service 4WD condition.

Hopefully this will save some people $$$ because I got $425 in it before I fixed it.
I replaced push button switch, replaced Transfer case control module (didnt realize it would need programmed). Would give trouble code 327, or maybe its 0327.

Finally found the site I will give.. I cant take any credit but want to give kudos and much thanks to the person that put it out there.

Basically in a nutshell the 327 code leans toward the encoder sensor inside the transfer case motor assy. (not in the actual xfer case). This sucker is $500 plus at chevy parts dealer.

There is actually an encoder/sensor inside that feeds back position . I replaced mine last night per the instructions @ www.justanswer.com/uploads/Bluegorilla/20090227_014121_Encoder_sensor_replacement.pdf (http://www.justanswer.com/uploads/Bluegorilla/20090227_014121_Encoder_sensor_replacement.pdf)
It gives part numbers etc. This is for the motor assy that fits my 246 New Process transfer case

This Chevy sensor (http://www.gmpartsclub.com) was $77 dollars plus tax at the chevy parts (http://www.chevyclub.org/) dealer.
Silverado Parts (http://www.gmpartsclub.com/chevy-silverado-parts.html)

[freddie]

Thanks for the heads up!

[Jimmiee]

This is a good example of why we need to check codes before throwing parts at a problem. I have found that many people that participate in on line forums want to find the easy fix by changing parts rather than performing a diagnosis and fixing the actual problem. I'll bet the parts stores just love forums because they generate a lot of parts sales. LOL

[2COR517]

This is a good example of why we need to check codes before throwing parts at a problem. I have found that many people that participate in on line forums want to find the easy fix by changing parts rather than performing a diagnosis and fixing the actual problem. I'll bet the parts stores just love forums because they generate a lot of parts sales. LOL

I agree. It's discouraging to see a thread that starts as a simple problem, and 10 parts have already been replaced. Find out what's wrong, then start replacing the defective items. Everybody wants to save money for sure, but in the end it's often cheaper to have a shop diagnose the problem. Scanners are getting cheaper every day, maybe go in with a friend or two to purchase one.

[2COR517]

Link didn't work for me.

[ejj]

Link didn't work for me.

Same here.:no:

This sound like the exact problem I'm having, so I'd love to read the diagnosis and replacement procedure.

[tareyton]

Has any one found the proper link?

[jerseymike68]

Best of luck!

[jmbecton]

This seems too common. My encoder sensor on my 2005 Z71 Tahoe also went out within the 36K mile warranty and was replaced. The neutral (red) light would randomly come on, accompanied by "Service 4WD" on the read out. The issue repeated closer to 50K miles, once my warranty had lapsed of course. Random LED activity on the push buttons returned, occasionally working fine, as well as the intermittent availability of 4WD. Around 75K miles, the issue became constant. I lived without 4WD for a while until my Tahoe started "auto engaging" 4WD both high and low range, despite the push buttons not functioning.

After being told that only a Chevy Dealer could diagnose my 4WD system due to it requiring special equipment that Chevy alone possesses, I took it in and approved their $102.00 diagnostic fee. They determined in a few hours that it was another encoder sensor gone bad, possibly the same one, so I had it repaired. dealer price to repair was 114.32 parts and 234.60 labor plus tax. No consideration was offered despite this being a repeat issue.


I plan to sell my Tahoe before this chronic problem happens again.

[ungwaha]

I have a '05 Suburban z71 that won't come out of 4 hi. When I start the truck it will shift into 4 hi and then I can get it into 4 AUTO. I have changed the dash switch and hoping that I don't have to the encoder motor. The stealer right by my house quoted me $614 for the encoder motor. I called another dealer and they quoted $435. I found some reman ones online for about $270 before shipping. My local NAPA has the same reman one for $286. If I put this in myself do I have to go to the stealership to get it programed?

[Jimmiee]

I have a '05 Suburban z71 that won't come out of 4 hi. When I start the truck it will shift into 4 hi and then I can get it into 4 AUTO. I have changed the dash switch and hoping that I don't have to the encoder motor. The stealer right by my house quoted me $614 for the encoder motor. I called another dealer and they quoted $435. I found some reman ones online for about $270 before shipping. My local NAPA has the same reman one for $286. If I put this in myself do I have to go to the stealership to get it programed?

If you just change the motor it won't need any reprogramming.