Transfer Case Encoder
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Yukon XL, 2002 GMC Yukon, 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2002 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The encoder is mounted to the transfer case encoder motor assembly and is replaced only as an assembly. The encoder converts the sector shaft position, representing a mode or range, into electrical signal inputs to the transfer case shift control module. The module detects what position the transfer case is in by monitoring the 4 encoder channels (P, A, B, and C). These inputs translate into AUTO 4WD, 2HI, 4HI, NEUTRAL, and 4LO or whether the motor is still in transition between gears.
The transfer case encoder channel circuits may be monitored using a scan tool.