Hey guys. So i just bought me jeep in the summer and have never owned a 4x4 vehicle before. I wanted to test out the four wheel drive now that there is snow and ice on the roads. i was on a snowy/icy feild and i got stuck. i eventually got out but it felt like only the back tires were spinning. i tried putting it in both 4 high and low. Was just wondering if it was because it was icy and the front wheels have to catch once the rears catch or if its just not poppin into 4 wheel. I was told the indicator was off when i got the jeep but he said the 4 wheel drive still worked. Thanks for your time hope someone can help me out.

 

what year

 

93 xj sport i6

 

does yours have a vacuum operated front axle know central axle disco or vac disconnect, if it does there known to go bad, and if not get under and check linkages for starts

 

this thing, lol

 

The year is not important. What's relevant is the transfercase & the rear axle (Limited slip or not). I think trying out your 4WD in ice & snow as a novice & for the first time was a mistake. Ice will defeat the best of 4x4 systems most of the time. If you have the Selec-Trac system (full time 4x4) them you should try it out in dry slippery conditions like dirt road or gravel. If you have Command Trac (Part time 4x4) the same applies, but you have to be more careful. If you don't have an owner's manual, getting one would be a good idea. That's how I learned about my first XJ (which was also my first vehicle).

Just remember - 4WD gives you more traction, but it won't help you to stop. Many SUV drivers think they're invincible because their Tahoe or Explorer has 4x4, and they drive like idiots in low traction conditions. Be careful out there.

By the way, I'm jealous -seems everyone is getting snow but us . Waaaaaaaaaaaaa .....

 

sorry about year comment i forgot they liked changing it up, but yeah it matters if the vac dis. motor is bad trust me i know i have one