I have a 1998 limited with a 4.0L. I think it's the NP242 t-case, the shift is 2wd-4 full time-4 part time- neutral- 4lo. The t-case won't shift past 4wd part time. I can't get it into neutral. I tried with the tranny in neutral and in park. From what I gathered from searching some people said that if 4lo is not used, it will take some muscle to shift into it the first time or if it haven't been used in a while. I tried to muscle it before, but I did not want to pull too hard and break something. Anyone have any thoughts?

Are you pushing to right same time your pushing back ?

No, was just pulling straight back. Also if it makes a difference it has a 4.5" lift on it, stock driveshafts with minimal vibes

Unless theres a tc drop installed that shouldn't matter...pull back and to the right firmly. Don't be afraid to get ruff ..

Here's how the factory suggests you shift the transfer case and I've been doing this since these things were new and I worked at the dealership. Quoted from the owner's manual.

"To engage, shift the transfer case lever from 2H to 4H while the vehicle is moving at any legal speed". I let off the gas, throw the lever, and then tap the gas and let off.

4L position: " To engage, slow the vehicle to 2-3 MPH , shift the transmission to Neutral, then shift the transfer lever to the right and pull firmly rearward to 4L".

Yeah I remember reading that. I like to do it at a stop with the tranny in neutral. But I also tried it moving a couple if miles an hour and didn't work, but I'll have to try to pull to right as well

As stated by others,don't be askeered!!!

On both my old '92 (with a 242) and my current '91 (with a 231), to shift into 4Lo, I always had to stop completely, put my tranny in neutral and then shift into 4Lo. To shift back into 4H, I had to do the reverse. It might not be how the factory says to do it, but it is what works for me in my XJ.

ya still pullin...

I prefer shifting into 4H first. THEN, come to a stop, put trans into neutral, and shift to 4L.

Well, it was as simple pulling to right as well ! Ha! I didn't realize that for full and part time it was straight back , then you have to go around a notch for neutral and 4 lo. As simple as that. Thanks a lot guys!

Well, once in a while we're good for something.....

And once in a while some actually listen to exactly what is said.

Amen to that.