I have been looking at 3rd gen trucks and noticed some have a 4X4 switch on the dash instead of the lever on the floor. What is the difference between the 2 and is the dash mounted switch a problem?

 

Different transfer cases. One is manual, the other is electric. I prefer manual, but I don't know of many having issues with the electronic select either.

 

I have never used an electric t-case on a dodge but I loved the one on my chevrolet. Some people like the "feel" of the manual levers but the button is alot quicker and easier imo

 

06 mega w/ electronic - no issues
05 QC w/manual - no issues
97 f150 w/electronic - no issues
96 suburban w/manual - issues
95 nissan w/manual - no issues
93 ranger w/electronic - no issues
86 nissan w/manual - no issues
89 mazda w/manual - no issues

moral of the story; dont know but only the chebby gave me problems.

 

I buddy of my just bought an 07 hemi ( yes I know it's not a diesel ) his electric switch has stopped working with 1300kms on it. It's a minor fix but he's stuck without 4x4 till dealer gets parts in

 

mine has been flawless, I have the electric.

Kevin

 

Thanks every one. Wanted to know if I should stay away from it or not. So far seems like it would not be an issue with either manual or electronic.

 

Electric on the Dakota was nice. Manual on the 2500 is nice. Wish I had the electric on the 2500. That would be real nice. Only difference IMO is the space the lever takes up on the floor.

 

id get the switch. i could care less about it being manual. i used to like it in previous trucks but now its just a pita every time ive ever used it. i personally dont care for mine

brett

 

problem with manul, to get into and out of low you need to shut the motor off. this way with both 4X4 trucks.
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06 4x4 std cab auto

 

My last truck had the lever, and my new truck has the switch. I used to say that I would only have a manual transfer case. When I decided to buy a MegaCab, I learned that ALL MegaCab's have the electronic transfer case and you get the switch (I't because DCX runs duct for AC/Heating where the manual transfer case lever would be).

I got to tell you, the electric switch is really growing on me. I've heard of no one that had any problems with them.

 

Since when? I put mine into (and out of) low-range all the time while the truck is running.

 

I almost was seeing a pattern....yep you should have listed the nissan before the chivy.

 

That's usually an issue with teh auto tranny more so than a manual, and only after the truck gets some miles on it. At least, that's my experience.

 

[QUOTE=elkman12;1372522]problem with manul, to get into and out of low you need to shut the motor off. this way with both 4X4 trucks.

Out your tranny in Neutral and shift it while you're barely rolling. It will pop right in. Just make sure you're not going more than a couple mph.

Personally, I wanted the manual shifter because I know when it SAYS 4x4 it IS 4x4. It's possible to be stuck in the sand in 4x2, switch an electronic tcase to 4x4, and it won't be able to click in because things might be binding and there's nowhere to roll because of the stuck situation. This can also happen on pre '03 trucks with the vacuum disconnect on the front axle, even with a manual shifter. I'm glad I got the stick! Plus, my dash cubby is bigger. :P