Quick F150 IWE 4x4 Actuator System Check from solenoid down to Hubs - How To Vacuum Gauge Needed

[@jsjizzaone3590]

No...THANK YOU!!!! Im glad your helping us to learn how these 4x4 systems work ive never dealt with them but it is pretty cool how they operate!!!

[@FordBossMe]

Because of you guys that I have a job so I have to give back I feel

[@rogeramador3915]

Thanks buddy for this video. I fixed my problem following your steps. Upper hose was crack/bend so it did not let the lines below have suction to disengage the hub actuator/Iwe. The symptoms was that my f150 had some bad, scary vibration only when putting some pressure while turning to the right. Both wheels were stuck on 2H. After this fix no more vibration, wheels are free and actuators work like they are suppose to.. Hope this helps others like me....

[@texcastro75]

Great video. Just purchased a used 4x4 and had no idea how the front wheels engaged but I'm heading that chatter coming from one wheel especially loud

[@jimmymusicman7360]

Thx, my 2006 f150 it becomes partially engaged when traveling on the freeway. Huge loud grinding noise that doesn't stop until truck comes to a complete stop with a loud snapping sound. Very intermittent. Never at an idle.

[@cheesecurd8557]

Thank you for this and all of your content! You have a gift for teaching in a clear and concise way, hats off to you for all your work to share your knowledge with the rest of the world.

[@bandknanacortes1858]

This was a really good video explaining this system. 2017 F150 3.5 Lariat, heavy payload package, 47000 miles. I have a low speed humming noise that I start hearing below about 30mph. I thought it was the front end turning like my manual hub 4x4s when the hubs are engaged. I did your checks and vacuum on the hubs , hubs are disengaged, no vacuum hubs engaged. I put 23” of vacuum on the main line by the solenoid and that was solid for 5 minutes, no loss. Good vacuum at solenoid in 2wd and stops when dash switch is 4wd. Good vacuum in reservoir even with engine off. So the 4wd engagement system seems to be good. The vacuum check valve is the black one not the blue on, but it seems to be working. Only two things come to mind now, hub bearings going out (happened on both my F250 Powerstroke 4x4s) or maybe it’s a humming from the original Goodyear tires which are now 7 1/2 years old per date code. (9/32nds fronts, 8/32nds remains on rears). Any ideas from you on possible causes or help with what to check next would be appreciated. I think this pickup is generally so much quieter than my previous 2 Super Duty pickups it’s easier to hear things. Keep up the great videos, you’re helping lots of folks.

[@BushmanCanuck]

Does the sound go away when you engage 4wd?

[@marcharris4176]

Great video. Went through all your tests and everything passed. Had mine changed out a couple years ago due to some issues and come to find out the dealer that installed them didn't tighten the 3 8mm bolts holding in the iwe on passenger side and it was loose as hell. I have 0 faith in the dealers by me.

[@TonicofSonic]

Did you have a noise coming from the one with loose bolts? I have a noise I narrowed down to potentially a stripped out 1 of the three 8mm bolts. Thinking it is not tight enough it loses vaccume?

[@marcharris4176]

@@TonicofSonic mine were backed out quit a ways. All of them. I was having engagement and loud noise at high speeds. Tightened it up and all is good for now. Watch the new ford boss video on KZbin about new service bulletins on the ford vaccum hubs. Ford is telling techs to plug off the whole system and just spins the shafts all the time. Check it out

[@TonicofSonic]

@@marcharris4176 Oh wow. Thanks for the response. Mine is tight enough to not turn by hand but also at the limits of spinning. I tried pulling the power to the solenoid to test itthe system, my intermittent sound remained. I wonder if plugging it would yield different result. Will check that out.

[@mikeb.2166]

@@marcharris4176 I'm curious - what was the noise like? loud humming (worse than off road tires) or clanging - like a bunch of nut n bolts in a coffee can being shaken?

[@Jdp313]

Thank you for the great explanation. Got 2015 f150 was getting the weird sound replaced the solenoid and tube with the check valve hoping that does the trick.

[@kevinmatson8885]

This happened to my truck 6 years ago...a horrible grinding noise for sure!....unfortunately it happened again this morning on the Highway.....hopefully its a quick fix with a new vavle...Great Video! ...Thanks!!

[@ThatBoyMichael1]

Was it?

[@kevinmatson8885]

It was the vaccumm lines that were leaking 👍

[@JASONHN]

Can you please tell me if the noise was like mine? I uploaded a video to show the noisekzbin.infoUEr65xsL244?si=mJsMm8gix28N6xTT

[@jimleavens8392]

Thank you!! You definitely know your Ford systems and are very good at explaining everything.

[@FordBossMe]

Glad to help

[@joshv7374]

I’ve been having numerous IWE issues on my 2018 lariat. Between two different dealers, they have performed a couple tsb’s, check valve replacement, a vacuum line, and I believe an IWE itself. It used to make a grinding noise when braking in only cold weather (below 45 degrees I’d say) but now in the warmer weather (60 degrees) it is still doing it. I am at a loss, it is very annoying and it drives me nuts. I am waiting on my 2021 f150 order to come in because I’m so fed up with my ‘18. This is a very informative video!

[@FordBossMe]

I appreciate your support and this is a chronic problem with these truck iwes

[@joshv7374]

@@FordBossMe I crawled underneath a 2021 not too long ago and saw that Ford changed the IWE, it looked electronic now if I’m not mistaken

[@FordBossMe]

@@joshv7374 I have not looked

[@joshv7374]

@@FordBossMe hopefully whatever changes they made is for the better!

[@Mario2o]

Have you found a solution? Is the iwe part of the hub assembly? I see no options for interested wheel end on Rockauto for the 09-14 fx4..

[@keithbrown1915]

Some of the best diag vids. Keep up the good work.

[@giobikefans]

These IWEs have been the bane of my existence. I had to have both hubs replaced under warranty. Now it’s clearly the IWEs again making this sound again three years later. What a dumb system.

[@giobikefans]

I replaced the one myself last week for $200 but if it goes again I just might do that, thanks for the suggestion.@@keithbrown1915

[@worleyone]

What is the sound ?

[@giobikefans]

@@worleyone It was the IWE and I replaced it myself. Was a huge pain because it was the middle of winter and I did it in my driveway.... it sounds like a low droning buzz and when you put it into 4wd it goes away.

[@scottploetz9585]

Bro. Excellent vid, exactly what i was looking for. Greatly appreciated!

[@Raf7er]

Thank you for this vid. I have a sound that happens when slowing down from 15 to 5 mph. Did all these tests and all things were fine. Went the extra step just to replace the hose tub, 4wd actuator and the vacuum reservoir and still happens. Sound doesnt happen in 4wd which leads me to think its still iwe related. Im at a loss but like I said this vid was extremely helpful.

[@FordBossMe]

Keep looking at my videos in the library to learn as much about the F-150 as possible and what would have happened is you would have run across a video that talks about a rattle tap ticking sound when coming to a stop or going to take off just under light load Look at the exhaust clamp under the driver door on the heat shield it cracks and brakes and sits there and rattles under the same fashion

[@Raf7er]

@@FordBossMe Thank you for the video suggestions. Just checked them out. The 2015 5.0 I have is more of a light grinding sound when decelerating. Thought it was the brake pads so replaced those all around (rears were due for sure, fronts had a little life left). Had the vcts replaced a few thousand miles ago as well.

[@tylermcneely3535]

@@Raf7er what did it end up being?

[@georged1085]

Mine goes away in 4wd too. I’ve replaced check valve and solenoid no luck yet. What did yours end up being?

[@TheBeardedScreenwriter]

You made many people happy posting this!

[@FordBossMe]

I just wanted to make something quick semi informative that anybody can do

[@J_J_Ander]

Awesome video, clean and clear information. 👌

[@JoeSmith-ls9bx]

You sir are amazing. Thank you for your time and effort. I needed this so bad. Great job brother !!!!

[@FordBossMe]

If you don't have the blue check valve get it, the black one is the old one

[@swishajay]

@@FordBossMe Quick question I check my whole system is working properly. I marked the axles I move the truck forward and they don’t spin reverse they don’t spin. But if I go on a drive I notice they spun. Is that normal? Do they disengage and engage once in a while during normal driving?

[@SimonsSoftwash]

I’m stumped here, I have a 2014 ford f150 3.5l v6 eco boost. My truck was making the noise every so often and I’d turn 4x4 on and then back to 2x4 and the noise goes away. I replaced the selenoid & check valve same problem nothing changed. I put 2 brand new OEM IWE’s in and now the grinding noise stays constant no matter if I go to 4x4 and back to 2wd. I’m thinking of doing a vacuum test next and see if I have a bad vacuum line. The driver side sucks vacuum great but passenger side is very light. I’ve even pulled both vacuum lines off the new iwe’s and used compressed air to blow air through both lines and plug it back in but still no luck.

[@FordBossMe]

Vacuum test lines indeed

[@SimonsSoftwash]

I’ll check it out and report back tomorrow. your video here was very helpful & well detailed. Awesome job. 👍🏼

[@georged1085]

@@SimonsSoftwash what did yours end up being?

[@robcarr8505]

I tried to ask my dealer to fix my 4wd because it's grinding every now and then. I put it in 4wd and the grinding stops. Usually if I put it in and out of 4wd a couple times it'll go away. They said if it's not actively grinding, they can't diagnose it. I really wish your shop was in Syracuse NY 😢

[@liferewired]

You are a blessing.

[@melmontano5279]

Thanks for this video it's the most helpful one out ther

[@alb12345672]

Nice video! I was losing 4x4 and heat at high throttle. That was a bad checkvalve. My explorer has it internally in a vacuum res. I just added a checkvalve. At high throttle there is little vacuum in the plenum and the check valve has to hold the vacuum.

[@FordBossMe]

Great Idea

[@mick5740]

My 06 passenger vacuum line just got obliterated, from heat. It’s broke. I had just replaced the hub bearing that side. I guess I didn’t stuff it uo high enough ? Crazy. The passenger side vac line is a mess compared to simple drivers side I ordered new vac lines. I need to drive it in the meantime without ruining anything. It melted so the vac to the passenger is melted and same to the main supply

[@JohnnyRebKy]

I put a brand new actuator on my 2011. No more noise. A few weeks later I had to use 4x4 and when i put it back into 2wd the thing is making racket again. If I engage 4x4 the noise stops and when back in 2wd it starts again. I’m getting real fed up with this modern stuff 🤦🏼‍♂️. Thinking about selling and buying a 1980s truck I also put a new check valve on it up there on the firewall

[@FordBossMe]

You got to make sure you don't have any vacuum leaks in the lines and not only the check valve but sometimes the solenoid acts up as well

[@blairdenman837]

Hey Rich have you ever heard of an IWE staying disengaged even when there is sufficient vacuum? My driver side IWE does not want to release the CV axle will NOT spin with the tire no matter if it has vacuum or not. Thank you

[@BR-rt7kj]

Great video, when im driving my 4x4 would try and engage and would get a grinding noise, I turn it to 4x4 the noise would stop at first but now it will continue to grind in either one. I hooked up to the iwe at the wheel, it holds pressure in the tester but I don't get no free spin, axle moves as well. I hooked it up to the solenoid the tester held pressure but no free spin, axle was moving with the tire, im at a lost.

[@FordBossMe]

Did you apply manual vacuum at the hub?

[@BR-rt7kj]

@Ford Boss Me I did and axle still moves, tire doesn't free spin.

[@justins8768]

I'm feeling a mild grinding type feeling in the steering wheel at non-highway speeds on my 2018 f150.. wondering if it's related to this so I'm going to do this exact test. Thanks, as always Boss!!

[@ZM1306]

Excellent walk through. Thanks.

[@FordBossMe]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ZM1306]

@@FordBossMe It was, and turns out I knocked the hose off on the passenger side. So that has been locked in the whole time and the noise on the driver side was because the vacume was weak with the other side wide open. I didn't look at the passenger side because it was quiet or I would have solved this 3 days ago... *facepalm*

[@LowNSlowOn2]

Great work. Nothing more I can say.

[@fredfredrico4917]

Good job😊

[@liveyourbestlifech7765]

Wow, I would never know. Thank you so much.

[@FordBossMe]

you are very welcome

[@jaredklug3502]

I have and 18 F150 that makes a growling noise in 2wd. When the truck is going straight there no noise, but if you turn either way slightly for a corner or curve thats when it growls. Can only notice in town at speeds under 20 do to wind noise. Truck only has 32k it so I hope it’s covered under drivetrain warranty.

[@brendonharrilal2092]

Hey Jared. I am having the same problem. Was wondering if you fixed the problem and can help me? Thanks man.

[@jaredklug3502]

@@brendonharrilal2092 ticket says they replaced both IWE’s…Was under warranty so I don’t know what the repair would have cost. Truck only has 35k on it. Good luck buddy

[@mick5740]

Could you help me out with something!? 06 f150. Changed check valves in vac system. But again got messed up at the brake booster there is a different size check valve that looks like the other two in the passenger side. I cannot find that valve to order.

[@flightmedic7169]

Checked all the lines and replaced the small filter line and valve. Still rattles and the iwe’s still hold pressure

[@frankmazzaferro8331]

I love your video's, I've thoroughly watched all your IWE videos. I've been having a problem with my trucks IWE (assuming its that). I got the service manual over the weekend to see if I was missing something. I have a 2019 Lariat with the "torque on demand" transfer case. Every single time i go for a drive I get the humming sound from the front left. I did all the troubleshooting possible. The check valve was broken. I replaced it but fault is still there. I dont have a real way to test the module so i bypassed the solenoid (attaching a male to male fitting between both vacuum hoses that go on the solenoid) and went for a drive. fault is still there. Vacuum reservoir is holding 20 in mg for 20 mins+ same for the vacuum lines downstream of the solenoid. I tested at what point the IWE's open up at and at 5 in mg they unlock the front axles. While i tested the vacuum lines i even tried shaking them to see if there was a small hole, found nothing. Im at a loss of words... I did the troubleshooting as per service manual and nothing is coming up. Do you have any other idea? When i'm driving with the window open to hear if the IWE's are making noise I literally hear nothing. I only hear the light humming sound with windows up, AC off, radio off. I even tried shaking the tires when i jacked the truck to see if the wheel bearing was going.. but again she's stiff and nothing... The truck is under warranty but when I bring it to a local dealer they slap on the TSB 20-2307. It does fix a problem but I find the TSB is a bandaid repair and when we spend this kind of money on these trucks its a slap in the face considering it makes the truck drink more gas and adds more wear and tear on my front diff. If you have any other suggestions i'll love to hear it because its really annoying. Thanks

[@FordBossMe]

Just because you have a good vacuum test on your IWE doesn't mean it's actually good and we need to talk about this very soon because people get that confused they think because the vacuum's good the IWE is good and that is not the case

[@frankmazzaferro8331]

@@FordBossMe very interesting!!

[@fernandobullon430]

Quick question for you. I have a 05 f150 4x4 the solenoid for the 4x4 loses power as i come to a stop or sometimes when im cruising it doesn’t do it all the time but is it the ecu the problem here, it loses power only for a few seconds and it comes back after and of course the wheels start to make noise until it gets the power back on. Any help will help. Thank you Love your videos keep it coming

[@JohnTheMexicanic]

My problem is on the passenger side. Once I hit 50mph passenger side starts vibrating like crazy. The actuators are good but once I went to the fire wall top port, wouldn't hold vacuum. Buying the hoses tonight and installing them as soon as they get here. Hopefully that's the main problem. (Edit) had the hose on the passenger side hooked up wrong. Placed it the right way and now the lines to the actuator are holding a good vacuum. Now I'll have to check the solenoid so on and so on. There's not enough suction on the driver side tho not sure why.

[@dillenchaniceursuabelt9845]

I have a 2017 f150 and the actuator bleeds off very slowly this I the second one I’ve replaced in less then a week

[@user-ug3cc8rk7n]

Anyone know why I have the intermittent grinding sound. I checked the actuators with a vacuum gauge, each holding pressure. Checked my lines, each pulling pressure. This was yesterday and then i put it back together and I didn’t have any grinding for the rest of the day. Today I drove to work, heard the grinding, checked pressure and everything was good again. Could it be my cv axle?

[@justinreynaud1598]

would a hole in one of these lines cause a whistle upon acceleration and random jerking upon acceleration?

[@RadTrav270]

Anyone info on why I’d be getting vacuum to one hub but low vacuum (5) to the other? After replacing everything?

[@kevinparshall1047]

So, cant you just start the vehicle with front wheels in the air & apin wheels??

[@user-lv8et1qs9c]

I’m getting a ratcheting noise from the front of my truck. Every time I let off the throttle I here the ratcheting

[@michaelmaurer1226]

Chances are it its a front HUB. That was my issue. 600.00 fix. 2012 F-150 4x4

[@kevingeorge6226]

Ford Boss - Super helpful video working through the vacuum troubleshooting. I'm curious if you've ever found this to be an electrical problem going to the solenoid. I've tested my voltage before and found it to be inconsistent. I expected ~13V (?) constant in 2WD, however when moving to 4A or 4H and back to 2WD, my voltage was 0.

[@FordBossMe]

Normal

[@erickwilliams8863]

GREAT VIDEO!!!!!

[@scottfrankenfield4762]

Great video once again. I have a scenario that I don’t see is really touched upon in this thread, or in most other diagnostic videos regarding these IWE’s. My 2015 Lariat, with 3.5L EB, has 4Auto mode as well as 4High. I read somewhere that the CV axles in a 4Auto tyranny “are designed to turn” with the hub while in 2H. Is this true?? If so, I assume the vacuum/no vacuum test process would be different for this model?

[@FordBossMe]

So that's where you're wrong this has been covered in 4x4 Auto driving with your friends for case and the fact that I already had a Ford Bronco smoke the transfer case for driving in 4x4 Auto Nope the hubs are not built in me different

[@joelane4670]

Hey bud great info..my truck has the same problem..Do you know if that would be covered under your warranty? I have a 2017 F150 and I have I believe bumper-to-bumper warranty..thanks brother..My pro seems to be the passenger side front. Making a scraping sound periodically

[@ItsMeJbird]

Mine is doing a sound like a scrubbing nose when it gets cold. I replaced the driver wheel hub and new front brakes and still makes the noise. The noise is on the driver side. I think I'm only getting partial disengagement of the IWE and its rubbing. Under hood check valve and solenoid were replaced. Thanks

[@georged1085]

I’ve done check valve and solenoid noise is still there. Next I’m checking the lines. What fixed it for you?

[@ItsMeJbird]

@@georged1085 haven't yet.

[@georged1085]

@@ItsMeJbird I’ll let you know if I have any luck

[@ItsMeJbird]

@georged1085 I think I might try the Accurator next. It's the last damn thing, lol

[@georged1085]

@@ItsMeJbird the iwe actuators? I’m thinking that’s what mine is. Have you tested your vacuum lines for leaks?

[@rmills423]

Great Video, Thanks. I have a 2004 Ford F 150 4X4 , are the rules you state in the video the same for that year? I have 4x4 problems and the drivers side IWE will not disengage from the axle regardless of whether I put zero (pull vacuum hose) or apply 25 of vacuum directly to the IWE. The passenger side IWE is just the opposite , disengaged whether or not I pull vacuum hose or apply 25 directly to the IWE.

[@FordBossMe]

I don't know I haven't worked on one of them in so freaking long and it wasn't four wheel drive

[@relicaro21]

What about on the powerboost? How does it operate?

[@sniperking4696]

Love your Chanel

[@FordBossMe]

Tyvm

[@kevinw4913]

Thanks for all your videos been a year or so subscriber and they've been great. This one came across my feed at the right time. my 2019 F150 has a grind on the drivers side but only when cool out and it only happens after about 0.5 miles into my drive. If i toss it in 4x4 it immediately goes away and i can put it back in 2wheel drive and it wont do it again until the truck shuts off and sits for a few minutes but i feel like the hubs are still engaged. I have replaced the check valve and the solenoid since i've been to the dealer twice now for this. I have tested vacuum down to the wheels and all seems good, it holds vacuum and the hubs disengage. I have vacuum in the system from the engine, i can feel the vacuum. The dealer because it doesn't 100% of the time make the grind, cant troubleshoot unless its doing it and i am not sure where to go from here. Any thoughts on something i can check?

[@brendonharrilal2092]

Hey man. Having the same problem. Iv been going over Rich’s videos to try and figure it out. Iv also replaced the check valve and solenoid and still getting the intermitted grinding when accelerating and turning the wheel right. Wondering if you figured it out yet and can help me? Thanks man

[@mikeb.2166]

Thanks, the front left made the 'nutz n bolts being shaken in a tin coffee can' noise on my 2018 F150 Ltd at 5K miles. Dealer fixed it but now at 40K miles I swear I have a hum in the front left that is more than I should with AT tires on the truck and I think I have heard that clanking nut n bolts in tin coffee can noise just a little twice on a 200 mile road trip last weekend so wondering if this has failed again so need to run through this vacuum check process. Is it possible for say just the front left to be engaged all the time in 2WD? Also is this repair covered under Fords 5yr/60K miles power train warranty?

[@FordBossMe]

Yeah it could be it just all depends it's unlikely but it could

[@kanekanic3940]

When applying vacuum to the hub actuators, they do disengage the axles. But applying vacuum to the upper line at the solenoid will not hold vacuum. I replaced check valve and solenoid - what's next?

[@FordBossMe]

If applying vacuum to the line that supplies vacuum to the iwes and it won't hold vacuum from there down you have a broken line somewhere

[@stan2891]

I have the noise where it’s not disengaging unless I put it into 4x4 so I going to change the bearing and actuator

[@mattstacy1652]

Can the vacuum solenoid get stuck in an open position so that it’s pulling vacuum all the time even when shifting to 4wd? Cause I can hear and physically feel the transfer case shifting into 4wd but the front wheels aren’t engaging. No noise in 2wd. I plan on going to to his house and removing vacuum to the wheels tomar and see if they engage that way. Just wondering why both wheels would fail at the same time and he’s not having any other symptoms like the grinding, etc.

[@FordBossMe]

Yes

[@AlaskanMatt907]

I put a vacuum tester on the output side of my solenoid and measured 0s in 2WD. I’m assuming that means my solenoid is trash or it’s not getting ground. Correct?

[@FordBossMe]

Yep

[@FordBossMe]

Or power, something is up with it

[@micharris1761]

tyvm, nice vid.

[@C_Brucehard]

Thank you!

[@TonicofSonic]

Can I simply unplug my IWE solenoid and drive with the front axles engaged while in 2wd to easily eliminate the iwe as a potential noise?

[@richardmusser9120]

My 2007, F150, 4-wheel drive, 4.6, all of a sudden started making awful scraping sounds. Then, within a few minutes the truck lost all forward pull, like the tranny was slipping, causing the RPM's to climb. As I slowed and pulled over to stop I all of a sudden had forward pull again. If I remember correctly, the scrapping stopped each time the forward pull went away. I later found a vacuum line to my passenger hub disconnected. I think the scrapping stopped, but the transmission appears to slip the same as before. I haven't driven it but to test it out after reconnecting the hose, but feel the scrapping is cured. I don't know if it's a coincidence that the two things happened at the same time, or, is there a mutual thing going on that they interact with, together? I pulled the tranny pan, before I discovered the disconnected hose, and changed the filter, fluid and gasket (also added a qt. of Lucus). There was no metal flakes or pieces, but the fluid was black. I don't believe the fluid or filter had ever been changed, because the dipstick knock out plug was still in the pan. 9:26pm 7/19/23

[@FordBossMe]

Yeah that's odd I really don't know

[@dnlagee5]

Good stuff brother!

[@FordBossMe]

Thanks Bro

[@dnlagee5]

@@FordBossMe I'm going to try and get a video to ya today about that wire question, it's raining here so like I said I'll try and get it to ya today no later than tomorrow. I appreciate you brother ty.

[@dnlagee5]

@@FordBossMe I sent those videos and pics hope you get them and understand the issue that's going on. Thanks again.

[@pw4726]

How to test out the IWE system for four-wheel-drive

[@FordBossMe]

If you cannot answer that based on a videos that I already have put out I don't know how to help you then because I've already done like several videos on what you're asking and if you need more than that I can't help you because I've given you everything in multiple videos

[@Branhawk]

Does this sound almost sound like brake pads rubbing? I have a sound on a truck I just bought can’t tell it it’s wheel bearings brake pads or iwe

[@FordBossMe]

No it sounds like clicking

[@RedeemedMechanic]

Is the IWE solenoid supposed to act like a check valve also? I’m looking at an older one of these today and it’s problem is when you engage 4WD it isn’t releasing vacuum. You can hear the solenoid switch and it isn’t applying vacuum to the IWEs, but the existing vacuum isn’t venting. I guess I don’t understand the venting process and Mitchell ProDemand isn’t helpful. Can’t even get a diagram.

[@FordBossMe]

Switch the vacuum lines around and see if it's doing the same thing at the solenoid

[@RedeemedMechanic]

@@FordBossMe I’ll try to see if I can do that. What’s weird is this is an older model (2005) that has the two hoses feeing into a joined block where you can’t really switch them without physically yanking the hoses out of the tips. Currently, source vacuum is going to the upper nipple on the solenoid and the vacuum line to the IWEs is at the lower one.

[@drummerrene]

How do you explain the grinding sound when i have my car jacked up, tire off, spin the hub, but no sound at all when driving.

[@FordBossMe]

I don't know buddy

[@drummerrene]

lol@@FordBossMe

[@ulysesgonzalez1714]

Hi I have an ford f150 2017 4x4 I took it to the dealer and I can't find anything wrong with it. When I'm driving and my car goes 2000 RPM it rattled. On the back. If there's something that you can help me with.

[@FordBossMe]

I've never heard that before especially at 2000 RPM and it rattled in the back? Are you explaining that correctly

[@ulysesgonzalez1714]

@@FordBossMe Is there any number that I could call you at

[@williamgrant2561]

On my 2010, We had a big snow and it got stuck in 4 wheel, So I looked and both hoses were off on both sides, So I plugged them back in and it went back into two wheel, But when I go to turn on 4x4 they don’t turn back on unless I manually unhook the hoses again, Any advise would be appreciated, thanks

[@FordBossMe]

I'm making a video for you

[@grantpahlke9045]

I understand the checks you have made. I had a faulty IWE solenoid, it seemed to have failed in the unlock position. I replaced the solenoid, I can feel it activating now, but the hubs will still not engage. Any idea what could be the problem?

[@FordBossMe]

There's something you missing with your diagnosis either one of the lines are switched backwards at the solenoid up top on the firewall or you've got a break in the vacuum line somewhere and you didn't find it I mean there's obviously something missing here that you're not saying so if you watch all and I mean all of my videos on the 4x4 system in these trucks you can diagnose any of them if you're not following everything step by step all the way from the vacuum Source up top all the way down to the hubs you're not going to diagnose it you are clearly missing something

[@stevek3270]

Following your directions, hubs work great with direct vacuum, but when I put vacuum at solenoid, only one hub spins freely, the other still engaged. I unplugged the line at the hub, and the pump still held pressure like the line is clogged. Any suggestions?

[@FordBossMe]

You are going to have to go through and check your lines

[@johnnyw157]

Hey man just wanna say thank you for your videos. I also follow you on tik tok.. question for you though.. I’m currently trying to diagnose an issue I’m having with my 19 f150 limited, I notice whenever I make a turn, or a u turn, (sometimes.. it’s intermittent) afterwards, as I begin accelerating I hear this shudder sound. Idk if it’s the cam phasers or the Iwe valve maybe? Any idea what it could be just by what I said. Thanks for any input

[@FordBossMe]

That sounds to me like it might be integrated wheel end issues

[@Blanco_5.0]

My 2019 f150 doesn’t let vacuum out of my solenoid into to the hose to my hubs/actuators. I don’t think that’s normal. Is vacuum suppose to be coming out from the top nipple of the solenoid ? I get no vacuum at all when truck is on or off. I used my vacuum pump on the bigger port of the actuator and my actuator disengages from the axle.

[@FordBossMe]

So you need to watch the rest of my videos on how to diagnose this if you didn't get how to diagnose this from this video there's a problem Now you have to see where you're losing vacuum in two wheel drive you should be able to pull that line off and feel vacuum with vehicle running in 2wd on that hose if there's no vacuum on that hose you need to follow the lines all the way back up to the solenoid on the reservoir on the firewall top driver side... which I have clearly showed in several videos how to do that so I would suggest starting there please it's hard to explain all this in a message when I have several videos explaining everything that you need to do to diagnose this

[@Blanco_5.0]

@@FordBossMe I don’t get vacuum from the top port of the solenoid when engaged in 2wd I do get vacuum into it but not out.

[@FordBossMe]

@@Blanco_5.0 so you either have a power problem to the solenoid or the solenoid is bad

[@FordBossMe]

@@Blanco_5.0 most of the time it's the solenoid that's bad

[@Blanco_5.0]

@@FordBossMe how can I check if their is poor power to solenoid, do you have a video to check for that?

[@twg1968]

I thought the system is supposed to have vacuum while in 2wd. Mine doesn’t have vacuum until I cycle through the 4wd then back to 2wd. Then there is engine vacuum until I turn the engine off and restart. Don’t know if it is a program issue or something else?

[@FordBossMe]

Look at my other videos on this they changed some of the procedure on 2017 and up F150s I don't know what year you have but if you look at my other videos where I talk about 2017 through 2020 F-150 four-wheel drive function you'll see that they don't have the same strategy the previous model does

[@fhiggenbottom]

Couldn't you diagnose the problem (and eliminate the need for a vacuum gauge) by simply bypassing the vacuum solenoid by disconnecting the vacuum line going directly into it and connecting it to the vacuum line going to both the IWEs? If both front wheels freewheel (with the engine running) then you've confirmed the IEWs are holding vacuum enough to activate and also that the vacuum lines routed to them are good indicating that the IWE for each wheel is good and leading you to suspect the problem lies with the vacuum solenoid which after further investigation might require it to be replaced.

[@FordBossMe]

Watch the other videos on the channel and you'll get the answer to that I have like four videos on vacuum diagnosis on these

[@TonicofSonic]

You mentioned replacing the hub assembly. what symptoms would you look for that indicate the hub needs replacement for the iwe to work properly? Thanks in advance.

[@FordBossMe]

Grinding howling chattering sound

[@FordBossMe]

Sometimes worse when turning

[@rogergomez850]

Hi bro..! I have a f150 07 my 4x4 Lights on and off on the Dashboard. When i put 4h or 4L dont work. So I replace all the lines vacuum, the hubs are great.! The solenoid is great but i round that dont arrive ground connection to the iwe Connector. So i dont know what to do.

[@FordBossMe]

Out your own ground in

[@josephcope1714]

When my wheel hubs have vacuum they disengage when I pull my vacuum hoses off the wheel hub 4x4 engages. So why when I turn my 4x4 switch to 4x4 does it not work?

[@FordBossMe]

Either you have a bad switch or the vacuum solenoid out on the firewall is bad or something doesn't have power

[@terryboylstein472]

Hello I noticed a weird grinding noise and found this check valve issue I replaced my assembly but realized it was already the new version. Should I try solenoid next?

[@FordBossMe]

You really need to do all of the tests like I say in my videos you're going to have to vacuum test each one of the iwes and you're going to have to vacuum test the lines connected to the iwes and if you follow my videos you're going to find out what's wrong I don't have any more input than that for you unfortunately

[@thomaseichstaedt4988]

Hi, just to get this straight. Is it best to also change out the wheel bearing hub to be safe because of contaminates ?

[@thomaseichstaedt4988]

Sorry man. I just checked your library and you explained that best to replace wheel bearing hub if it’s been happening for quite a while. My bad. Thanks!

[@shelbyville515]

Mine isn’t really a clicking sound. It has more of a knobby tire sound. I hear it more when I’m coming to a stop between 0-20 mph. I’ve noticed when it’s colder out the noise starts sooner when breaking from like 0-40 mph. You can feel it in the whole drive line. Even feels like you are riding on knobby tires. When it’s 60° and above it hardly does it at all. Do you think this could still be related to the IWE’s? Truck is a 2016 F150 with 42k miles. Also has the 4A mode on it.

[@FordBossMe]

I'm not sure what you're dealing with here I'm wondering if it's not some kind of driveline issue

[@shelbyville515]

I’ve read some that thought it could be related to the differential bearings. Just wanted to get your take. Thanks

[@kevingeorge6226]

I'm experiencing the same on my 2018 (driver's side). I swapped out the IWE. Thought it was good for ~2 weeks until it came back.

[@nickbean7386]

I have an 09 f150. 4x4 won't engage, changed the valve solenoid, still won't engage. Can hear the transfer case motor click when I turn the selector. Cleaned out the vacuum lines the best I could( canned air) and getting vacuum to the iwe. What else am I missing?

[@FordBossMe]

Well if you're getting vacuumed down at the integrated wheel ends the hubs with the weight off of the vehicle and the front tires engage the CV axles the problem is more than likely four wheel drive motor itself unfortunately or something inside the transfer case if all the vacuum lines check out in the iwe engage

[@nickbean7386]

@@FordBossMe I haven't lifted the truck off the ground yet ( have to dog a path to my shed to get jack) but I did put it in 4lo and moved back and forth and I could tell the truck was running in low gear so I'm assuming the transfer case motor is working, unless I'm confused on that. There wasnt much vacuum at the iwe but I don't know how much it should be. If the iwe are bad do the fail safe in 4x4 or 2x4?

[@xm15e2commando]

Has F150 dropped the front IWE completely for the 2022 model line up? Or is it still running electric actuated like in the couple of years previous to the 2022?

[@FordBossMe]

It's electrically controlled vacuum actuated previous to 2022 and as for if they're still using it I haven't looked at because I haven't had a reason to

[@swishajay]

Quick question I check my whole system is working properly. I marked the axles I move the truck forward and they don’t spin reverse they don’t spin. But if I go on a drive I notice they spun. Is that normal? Do they disengage and engage once in a while during normal driving?

[@FordBossMe]

Yes

[@FordBossMe]

That's normal

[@RyanBurg]

What vacuum pump do you have? Mine doesn’t have the proper fittings for the hub.

[@FordBossMe]

I'm lost do you want to email me about the fittings? [e-mail]

[@dougpeterson5186]

What if you have a hum like mudder tires.

[@FordBossMe]

Could be front differential

[@Luid-hg1xm]

will my truck still start without the vaccum line?

[@FordBossMe]

Of course the truck will start without the vacuum line but I don't know exactly what you're asking though what are you trying to achieve here?

[@stephenlamberecht7402]

I have an 04 f150 I’m not getting vacuum to the iwe I have changed the solenoid check valve and all vacuum lines to iwe

[@FordBossMe]

Keep going down the line until you get to the source of vacuum

[@stephenlamberecht7402]

I have vacuum at the solenoid but just not Down to the wheels

[@blifftc]

2013 FX4. Got home one day and passenger front rotor was smoking. Bad play in wheel bearing, replaced it and new rotors and pads on both sides. Front passenger still smoking in less than 5 miles. Replaced both calipers and both brake hoses. Still getting extremely hot on right side. Did the tests on this video too, everything passed. Mechanic shop can’t figure it out either, anyone have any suggestions?

[@FordBossMe]

Then there is a line restriction Or restriction in the abs.....or partially stuck abs valve or further down the brake lines Do an abs bleed procedure using the computer that activates the pump and follow the on-screen prompts and you'll probably see the string coming out of the brake caliper when you crack the bleeders loose you'll see which one is different and which one is giving you the problem

[@blifftc]

@@FordBossMe what computer would I need for this? Are there any affordable tools they sell?

[@georged1085]

@@blifftcwhat’d you do to fix this? just wondering

[@blifftc]

@@georged1085 Only thing I could guess is there was some type of blockage in the front passenger line cause I went through 3 new calipers and still got the same symptoms. Ended up completely draining/replacing all brake fluid and it stopped. Took the hose off the passenger front and pumped the fire out of the brakes and a bunch of debris came out.

[@elcochiii]

When i turn the wheel it has some play until the axle starts moving , is that normal ?

[@FordBossMe]

That's normal

[@elcochiii]

@@FordBossMe thanks

[@joelane4670]

Both of my eyesWE Hobbs are spinning while in 2 Wheel Dr. I changed check valve and hose. By both hubs are spinning while in 2 Wheel Dr. What could that possibly be?

[@georged1085]

What did it end up being?

[@joelane4670]

@@georged1085 it was the solenoid and the check valve.. cost about 50 bucks.. very simple

[@georged1085]

@@joelane4670 sadly that didn’t do it for me.. next step is to inspect lines, if that doesn’t work maybe an iwe or hub will do it

[@daleval2182]

Mines off and on, how do i clean the vac module, i suspect fliud, or debris in it?

[@FordBossMe]

There's a vacuum solenoid up on the firewall and I have a ton of videos on here showing different things about the four-wheel drive system you can pop the cover off of it and you can clean a little filter but at that point you may as well just replace the vacuum solenoid and the black check valve that attaches to it to the Blue version which is the updated one

[@daleval2182]

@@FordBossMe awesome thx Boss, im subbing and go explore you're video, Thanks very helpful, 👍

[@stephenbudykin128]

Are the spines visible without being removed

[@FordBossMe]

Ask that again please?

[@IrfanKhan-sp3pl]

You check this proutd which name

[@dannyarnold593]

I'm getting vacuum down to my iwe's on my 2013 f150. When I engage the 4wd I'm getting a check 4x4 light and its still getting vacuum to the iwe's with the 4wd turned on. I put a new solenoid on it and still the same problem. Any ideas what it could be? Thanks for the video

[@FordBossMe]

If you're getting a warning message chances are it's the actual motor on the back of the transfer case it's not so much the engagement of the front as long as the integrated wilentz are good it is the motor on the transfer case more than likely because I've never seen a hub actuator cause a check full driver's light but I have seen the motor on the back of the transfer case cause that and some of those Motors when you change them you actually have two deep in one of the wires and then move it over to the new motor when you install it it can be kind of tricky

[@thelugovlog2102]

No thank you boss

[@Ooze_yt]

No no no thank u

[@carsonwescott8630]

When i pressure test that top like out of the solenoid it holds 0 pressure. However when i turn the truck on and put the pressure gauge down at the fitting to the actuator it holds 15psi. Is it my lines or no? Those tests seem to contradict eachother

[@FordBossMe]

At the four-wheel drive lines with the vehicle in two wheel drive and you have your vacuum gauge hooked up you should be reading about 22 in of vacuum not pressure