When I'm in 4H The part time 4 WD indicator lights up on the dash, Is this thing only part time 4 wheel drive ??
What exactly does that mean ??

 

"Part-time" refers to the fact that 4WD should only be used on loose surfaces such as gravel, dirt, snow, etc. It does not mean that when you're in part-time mode that 4WD goes off and on.

If yours doesn't have a Full-time mode, then you likely have the NP 231 transfer case which doesn't allow for any slip between front and rear. If you drive in part-time on asphalt/concrete and turn the wheels, you'll get some wheel hop...not recommended

 

Mine is the same way, Part Time only. Does that make this transfer case less desirable or inferior?

 

With a 4wd tcase you have a few options..4hi an 4lo both are considered part-time meaning you do not want to keep them in that gear all the time just when you need it in the slippery surfaces like mud, rocks and such offroad..Some XJ's came with a 242 tcase that has the fulltime option meaning you can use it on any surface..

Basically part-time means offroad slippery srufaces only, fulltime means any surface nothing more.

 

You can look at your selector on the console to help determine which reansfercase your Jeep has. If it includes a selection of fulltime then you have a 242, if not then you have the 231. Both are great transfercases but the 242 just gives you one more option.
Be aware that fulltime eats up more fuel faster, so only use it if you feel you have intermitten slippery conditions.

 

WOW this is strange. I was going to ask that same question just now after seeing the green "full time" indicator in the sunlight. I guess I got my answer. Thanks guys...Tj

 

is part time a little less than a locker because it grips pretty darn good i have never gotten even close to stuck with it yet