Hey all,

I just picked up a 99 Cherokee Sport and have a question about the 4x4. I believe the 4x4 system is functioning. I believe I have the command-trac with just 2Wheel, 4WHigh , N, 4Low.

The dash does not light up at all when I swap into 4x4 but I "feel" the difference in turns when I go into 4H and make a sharp left/right. So I believe the system is functioning but now my paranoia is setting it.

Anyone know of a way to test it since I do not seem to get any lights on 4H or 4L on the dash. My fear is that it is not completely working and not just a burn out light.

Any ideas for testing or identifying if it is a burnt out light?

Thanks,
Steve

 

Where are you testing out 4x4? On dry pavement when you're making these sharp turns? In that case, what you're feeling is the transfer case binding. Which means it is in fact working However, you don't wanna drive it on dry pavement like that, not good for it.

And as far as testing a burnt out light, take apart the dash (it only takes a few screws) and replace the bulb. There really isn't any other way to test it.

Oh, and you have the NP 231 transfer case

 

Thanks for the quick response! I assumed as much and it was a low speed 30 second test on pavement since thats all I had. I'll pull the dash and check the lights. I will search but I assume the bulb type is posted here somewhere or in the manual?

 

I'm assuming that that bulb is just a 194 (it's a really small one). But try a google search to be sure. If not, the manual should have it in there somewhere.

 

Just a suggestion. While you have the dash apart, replace any other bulbs in there, although its fairly easy to remove a few screws, taking that damn bezel off is a pain.

Happened to me repalced the Part-Time lamp, the next day, the instrument panel light went out. I am sure I was a bit rough on it and caused it but lesson learned, I replaced them all at the same time. Just a thought. Welcome to the club!!

 

You can say that again.

So that's actually a pretty good suggestion.

 

actually , there is a way to test it ...had the same problem with my 99...on top of your transfer there is a switch that controls the light on the dash...pull the connector off of the switch, use a paper clip to jump the connection on the connector , turn your ignition on and the light should turn on (that's if the bulb isn't blown out) ...if the light does come on , then the switch on top of the transfer is bad....replace the switch ....i've replaced a few of these switches.......hope this helps !!!

 

The bulb is probably fine...and not much fun to get at. Normally the switch in the transfer case is what fails. Poster above ^^ has a good way to test it.