1998 ford ranger has problems with the 4wd system?

I have a 1998 ford ranger and the 4wd system will not engage unless I'm moving at about 5mph. It will not do it if I'm moving faster or if I'm setting still. When it engages, the front axles make a grinding noise. It has the pulse vaccum hubs and not the live axle 4wd system. My question is, how do I convert it over to a live axle? Do I have to change the entire front diff and axles as well as hub assembly? Also, what could the issue be with it now? Do you think it could just be the motor on the transfer case? I have checked all the electrical wiring, including the 4wd module, and everything is good to the motor. I'm not sure though how the front hubs engage… Is it like a chevrolet with an actuator on the front diff?

I have a 1998 ford ranger and the 4wd system will not engage unless I'm moving at about 5mph. It will not do it if I'm moving faster or if I'm setting still. When it engages, the front axles make a grinding noise. It has the pulse vaccum hubs and not the live axle 4wd system. My question is, how do I convert it over to a live axle? Do I have to change the entire front diff and axles as well as hub assembly? Also, what could the issue be with it now? Do you think it could just be the motor on the transfer case? I have checked all the electrical wiring, including the 4wd module, and everything is good to the motor. I'm not sure though how the front hubs engage… Is it like a chevrolet with an actuator on the front diff? Sounds like the hubs need disassembly, cleaning. Re-lubrication. But since it's been grinding, there maybe damage to the locker rings. Disassembly of hubs and inspection is all that can be advised at this point.

I service my hubs once a year. End of summer. B4 it get's too cold. Cold thickens up grease. So I inspect/re-grease 'em during that service. Certain amount of grease. Not too little, not too much. Do a search on you tube for like model 4x4 hub servicing.
since the 4x4 system on this is monitored by the computer, and the cost is huge, going from IFS-independent front suspension, to SAS-solid axle system, is not practical.
best to service what you got every fall. Bhdndd does it have the hubs in front you have to engage. If so you can buy the kit from most auto parts stores that you can change them over. Might also find it on a ford forum even though i'm in the business just can't think of the name of the company who makes it since its been awhile since we've done one

Bhdndd

Does it have the hubs in front you have to engage. If so you can buy the kit from most auto parts stores that you can change them over. Might also find it on a ford forum even though i'm in the business just can't think of the name of the company who makes it since its been awhile since we've done one