1996 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual - Page 257
1996 Ford Explorer Manual
Page 257 highlights
Driving Your Explorer s 4WD LOW mode - Only the 4WD LOW light is lit. To shift from Two-Wheel Drive to 4WD AUTO: To shift into 4WD AUTO, rotate the 4WD switch located on the instrument panel to 4WD AUTO. This shift can be done at a stop or on the fly. The initial shift from two-wheel drive to 4WD AUTO while the vehicle is moving can cause some momentary clunks and ratcheting sounds. This is the front drivetrain coming up to speed and is not a cause for concern. Because of possible damage to drivetrain components, never shift from two-wheel drive to 4WD with the rear wheels slipping. Electric shift switch To shift from 4WD AUTO to Two-Wheel Drive: Rotate the 4WD switch to 2WD; the light on the instrument cluster will go out indicating the vehicle is in two-wheel drive. This can be done at any speed. 257