1997 Ford Ranger Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 178

Driving Select drive rotary switch At extremely low temperatures, it may be necessary to slow down or even stop to shift from two wheel drive to 4WD. The initial shift from two-wheel drive to 4WD while the vehicle is moving can cause some momentary clunk and ratcheting sounds. This is the front drivetrain coming up to speed and the automatic locking hubs engaging and is not a cause for concern. Because of possible damage to powertrain components, never shift from two-wheel drive to 4WD with the rear wheels slipping. To shift from 4WD High to Two-Wheel Drive: Rotate the 4WD switch to 2WD; the 4WD light on the instrument cluster will go out, indicating the vehicle is in two-wheel drive. This can be done at any speed. To disengage the automatic locking hubs, operate the vehicle in two-wheel drive in the opposite direction for approximately 10 feet (3 meters) in a straight line. 177