Hi I have a 1999 XJ 4x4 with a 4.0. I have a problem with getting it into 2 wheel drive because it jumps right to part-time 4x4 although it's in the 2 wheel drive spot or will jump to the part-time 4x4. Also forget about 4x4 full-time because it does the samething and jumps to part-time so what could be wrong with it? Also how much would it cost to be fixed at a shop or is it a easy at home fix. I am hoping it is just cable that needs to be fixed or something like that.

 

Pry the plastic bezel around the shifter off, where it says 2wd 4pt 4ft ect... Just grab the edge and it pops up, then take a look in the mechanism, sometimes things fall in them ans something Is keeping it from locking in, do not drive in 4pt.

 

If it's not that could it need a linkage adjustment? And can you do that at home or is that something you would need to take to the shop?

 

Never had this problem, my 99 works fine. Shouldnt need to be adjusted, my thinking is something broke or its jamed

 

There are some write-ups on how to adjust th cable but.....

ALWAYS start with the easy stuff. Pry the plastic off... it just pops on and off, and look down in there. I have coins and stuff fall in there all the time. It might even just be rusty, or have some rud on it, from spilled soda-pop ad whatnot.

Regardless, absolutely DO NOT drive around in part time 4wheel drive. It locks all 4 tires together, and is meant for lowspeed occasional use. It'll burn out your transfer case quick if you drive it like that.

Worst case scenario, if it's "popping" in and out on it's own, until you can figure out how to fix it, it might be worth inquiring on how to disable it. In essence, put it in 2wheel drive, and disconnect the linkage, so at least you have a functional driver until fixed.

Might be worth checking into if it's your daily driver.

 

Not quite - in 4 part time the driveshafts are locked together. No XJ rolled off the line with locking differentials. When turning in Part Time the axle differentials still function, and unless wheel slip is allowed they bind up (with the tcase in the middle), and this is what causes damage. It can be used at any speed as long as there is some slipperiness or loose surface. 4 Low is a Part Time setting with 2.72:1 reduction, max speed IIRC is 50 KM/H. Full Time works like an open diff in the middle and can be used "full time" on any surface.

Indeed check for coins etc stuck in the shiftgate underneath the bezel. Underneath your Jeep its quite possible the shift linkage needs some grease, is rusted, is loose, or a combination. In the shift linkage there is actually an adjustment screw. The official adjustment method is to shift the TC into 4L, the loosen the screw and move the shift handle into the 4L position. Of course reverse applies if the linkage is off in the other direction (with 2H being at the other end of the range). If your handle isn't off though it's probably just a rust or grease issue. It's POSSIBLE that the shift detent ball/spring inside is worn, but that is rare in comparison.

 

Thx 4 the clarification. I'll repeat... do not drive your cherokee on DRY pavement in part time. My assumption was you didn't live in a remote portion of alaska or canda.
Why invite problems?