ford explorer help

[pizza man]

ok, i have an explorer 4 lt. v6 auto uk model we think?
problems with dash lights shoeing 4x4 & 4 low light, flashing 5 or 6 times every 5/8 minutes, have had problems a year ago with 4x4 system, discovered with out the help of our main ford dealer, it seemed to be no fluid in transfer box(4x4) emptied & refilled seemed ok, but did not have these lights coming on? fluid now seems full, but dirty brown like water is getting in
anyone had similar problems & know what action to take apart from chucking a can of gas over it lol
regards keith

[greystreak92]

The flashing lights are trying to tell you something is wrong. They are flashing out an error code generated by the electronic shift control module that engages and disengages the transfer case. Count the flashes. There will be a series of them, a brief pause, then another series. The codes can then be interpreted by a technician or a diagnostics computer to determine the problem.

The color of the fluid is a concern. The transfer case and the front and rear differential housings have (or should have) a small length of rubber hose that extends up from near the top of the casting. This hose vents hot air from these gear assemblies during operation. The hose other end of the hose should be attached to the body or frame of the vehicle somewhere nearby and be capped with a small plastic cap that acts as a check valve in the event you run through a puddle and water tries to get into the end of the hose. The hoses get old and brittle or caught on things. If they are missing, or damaged thats where the moisture is getting in.

www.ford-trucks.com if you have more questions.