This 1997 Ford F150 needs the GEM module changed due to multiple conditions. To see testing that lead to this repair please click here. The GEM module is located at the rear of the interior fuse box.
The first step is to remove the trim panel that covers the gap between the upper side of the steering column and the dash. It just unsnaps from the dash. It makes it a little easier to remove if you move the shifter all the way down to drive 1.
With that out of the way the lower dash cover can now be removed. Most of the screws have 7 mm heads but there are two that have 8 mm heads.
Those two are at the lower edge of the fuse box.
One wiring harness needs to be disconnected from the panel.
Now the screws for the fuse box can be removed.
The wiring harnesses can be removed from the back of the fuse box. Two 10 mm headed bolts at the center of each connector.
Next remove the tube brace from around the bottom of the steering column. Four fasteners with 13 mm heads.
Now wiggle, pry and twist the fuse box and GEM module assembly down.
After the assembly is down far enough unplug the remaining harness connectors from the GEM module.
Almost there.
The assembly is now free of the vehicle.
The GEM module is held to the back of the fuse box by three phillips headed screws.
Easy to remove Now.
With the three screws removed the GEM unplugs from the back of the fuse box.
I put it all back together and checked my repair for power to the driver’s power window switch.
i believe i am having a similar issue although mine is wipers inop and the high/low lights are funky i also have a no start. i pulled codes and got many related to the wipers non for the headlights and a few for the 4×4 mode switch i have a f150 light duty with the 5.4 i can get a whole fuse box assy from a 98 f150 do you know if this will cross over thank you for your time
The GEM is part of the control system for the 4wd. If there is corrosion in the GEM it is likely to be the problem but you should get a wiring diagram and do some testing. If you also have window, wiper and interior light issues, it is even more likely to be the cause of your problems. Also corrosion is caused by water so you will need to find and fix the water leak. I would recommend looking for corrosion in the fuse box as well.
I have a 97 f150 and it is stuck in four wheel drive. I tested the motor and it is fine… There is no clicking or naything when i switch it back to 2wd…I took the gem out and there was corrosion in it…Could this be why it will not switch out of 4×4….
The same test would apply but a visual inspection will be very important as well. If there are any visual signs of water, the fuse box will need to be replaced or possibly dried out.
I currently have been having all kinds of electrical problems. All the power windows went out, interior lights, wiper blades, turn signals, speedometer… Maybe some more I for off the top of my head. I went and replaced the GEM, but it didn’t appear to fix anything. I starting to think that the fuse panel is in bad shape as well. Is there any way to test that?