Dana 21

Questions about 4WDs and related topics

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57f100
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Dana 21

Post by 57f100 »

I have managed to get the parts required to fix the front axle, now I have a problem with the transfer case. It will engage fairly easy but is really, really hard to disconnect , I have to be quite aggressive to get it out of 4wd back into 2wd.
Any ideas ? Thanks in advance
cep62
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Re: Dana 21

Post by cep62 »

Make sure the front tires are straight , be on soft soil .
drive a little ways slow and push the lever when you let off the gas.
sometimes you have to burp the gas a couple times.
What happens is there's pressure on the drive line and in between coast and power it'll release.
hard surfaces, odd tires and turning make it harder.
Make sure the linkages aren't tight too .

you Do have the same gear ratio front and rear don't you?
57f100
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Re: Dana 21

Post by 57f100 »

Just checked ratios. 3.54 front and 3.50 rear
cep62
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Re: Dana 21

Post by cep62 »

57f100 wrote: Mon Jun 13, 2022 1:38 am Just checked ratios. 3.54 front and 3.50 rear
That's close enough.
57f100
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Re: Dana 21

Post by 57f100 »

I think my problem was I didn't have everything up to a good running temperature. Just went for a decent drive and it now shifts alot better.
Special_Nick
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Re: Dana 21

Post by Special_Nick »

Just picked up a 71 F100 with a Dana 21 in it. Trying to learn as much as I can about it but its been challenging to find good info out there.
"Special Nick"
1970 F100 Ranger XLT Heavy Duty Special
1971 F100 4x4
2010 Ram 3500 6.7 Cummins
cep62
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Re: Dana 21

Post by cep62 »

Special_Nick wrote: Wed Oct 19, 2022 10:49 am Just picked up a 71 F100 with a Dana 21 in it. Trying to learn as much as I can about it but its been challenging to find good info out there.
They're a good strong unit. I've never seen one break although it could happen.
The one drawback is no low range , but with a 4 speed with creeper it's usually not an issue.
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