This procedure replaces the transfer case encoder motor on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 engine and 4WD, which controls shift fork position for 4WD mode selection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transfer case encoder motor assembly × 1 — Motorcraft YH-1871 or equivalent
• Encoder motor seal/gasket × 1 — Usually included with motor assembly

Fluids

• Motorcraft Transfer Case Fluid — 2.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow transfer case to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
4. Start engine and verify current 4WD mode, then shift transfer case to 2HI (2WD) position using dash controls
5. Turn off engine and remove key

Procedure

1. 1

   Raise and support vehicle
   Using a floor jack, raise the front of the vehicle until you have adequate working clearance underneath. Secure with jack stands on the frame rails behind the front wheels. Shake the vehicle to verify stability before working underneath.
2. 2

   Locate the encoder motor
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the transfer case on the driver's side behind the transmission. The encoder motor is mounted on the rear section of the transfer case housing. It is a cylindrical component approximately 3-4 inches in diameter with an electrical connector on top and typically has 3-4 mounting bolts.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the encoder motor electrical connector and carefully pull it straight off the motor. If the connector is stuck due to corrosion, gently wiggle it while pulling. Do not force it or you may damage the pins.
4. 4

   Position drain pan
   Place a drain pan with at least 3 quart capacity directly beneath the encoder motor. When the motor is removed, transfer case fluid will drain from the opening. Position the pan to catch fluid from both the motor itself and the transfer case housing.
5. 5

   Remove encoder motor mounting bolts
   Remove the 3 or 4 mounting bolts securing the encoder motor to the transfer case housing using the appropriate socket. Keep track of bolt locations as they may be different lengths. Note the orientation of the motor before removal for proper installation of the replacement.
6. 6

   Remove encoder motor
   Carefully pull the encoder motor straight out from the transfer case housing. Fluid will begin draining immediately. Allow the old motor to drain completely into the pan. Inspect the motor shaft and internal components for damage or metal debris that might indicate larger transfer case problems.
   ⚠Transfer case fluid will drain when motor is removed. Keep drain pan positioned to catch all fluid.
7. 7

   Clean mounting surface
   Once fluid has drained to a slow drip, use rags and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the mounting surface on the transfer case housing. Remove all traces of old gasket material or seal. Inspect the mounting surface for cracks or damage.
8. 8

   Prepare new encoder motor
   Remove the new encoder motor from packaging and verify it matches the old unit. Install the new seal or gasket onto the new motor according to manufacturer instructions. Some motors come with the seal pre-installed. Apply a thin film of transfer case fluid to the seal to aid installation.
9. 9

   Install new encoder motor
   Align the new encoder motor with the mounting holes and shaft opening in the transfer case. The motor shaft must engage properly with the shift mechanism inside. Push the motor in evenly while rotating it slightly to ensure proper engagement. The motor should seat fully against the housing.
10. 10

    Install and torque mounting bolts
    Install all encoder motor mounting bolts and thread them in by hand first. Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even seating of the motor and seal. Torque all mounting bolts to specification.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly onto the encoder motor until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is locked. Ensure the rubber weather seal is properly seated.
12. 12

    Refill transfer case fluid
    Locate the transfer case fill plug on the passenger side of the transfer case housing. Remove the fill plug and use a funnel or fluid pump to add Motorcraft Transfer Case Fluid. Fill until fluid begins to drip from the fill hole, indicating proper level. Reinstall and tighten the fill plug.
13. 13

    Lower vehicle and test
    Remove jack stands and carefully lower the vehicle to the ground. Start the engine and test all transfer case modes (2HI, 4HI, 4LO if equipped) using the dash controls. Verify the mode indicator lights function correctly and shifts are smooth. Listen for unusual noises during mode changes.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly of other components should be necessary for this procedure
2. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly locked
3. Verify transfer case fill plug is tight to prevent leaks

Verification

• Start vehicle and cycle through all 4WD modes (2HI, 4AUTO if equipped, 4HI, 4LO) multiple times
• Verify dashboard indicator correctly displays each selected mode without flashing or error messages
• Check for fluid leaks around the encoder motor after testing all modes
• Test drive vehicle in 2WD and 4WD modes to confirm proper engagement and operation
• Recheck transfer case fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary
• Clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes related to the transfer case encoder motor using a scan tool

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