jshafer

HELP! 1372352

Just purchased a nice 1988 Stepside 4X4, 350 with T-350 trans.

4X4 will not engage. The actuator was bad--and we replaced it thinking that was the problem. Confirmed that the actuator works---still won't engage. Took out the actuator and tried to engage while spinning the wheel--nothing. Plunger will push in only 1/2 an inch.

Any ideas out there???

mudmaniac

I'm not sure if the 88 has IFS, but if it does remove the half shaft from the differential and the CV flange, remove the 2 bolts in the support bracket and drop it.
Check inside to make sure that the fork that slides the axle coupler is not bent and that the coupler slides back and forth easily. It is not a difficult assembly, so don't be intimidated about removing it.
I had to remove it from my Tahoe so many times that I think I could do it blindfolded. LOL
If it has a strait axle let me know and I'll do a little research.

nauticstar87

88 is IFS, unless its the older "box" body style. then its a straight axle.

myotherchevyisablazer

the 88 pickup's are ifs.....

mudmaniac

I was pretty sure 87 was the last year without IFS

myotherchevyisablazer

i bought a donar truck which was a 89 and it was ifs...... his could be straight though....

jshafer

Thanks---I'll check it out and let you know on the IFS piece! Were you able to make the fix by bending the forks back---or did you get a new piece from GM? I ask because you scare me by saying you had it apart so many times! I need this to work and be dependable as this is my "get er done" truck. Thanks, Jon

mudmaniac

If it's bent get a new one.
The only reason I have ad mine apart so many times is because I changed the gears and welded the spider gears. I use it for mud racing and I kept braking axles.
I now have a strait axle.