They probably did it for fuel mileage originally. Didn't make any difference as the 242 equipped Jeeps with no disconnect got the same MPG.

Realizing that, they got rid of the vac disco.

It's easily done without clamps, washers, or bolts. Read about it in the Tech Section.

By "leaving it whole" as you describe, you eliminate the possibility of the front axle not engaging when you need it the most. Too many factors could cause it not to engage. Saw it every snow day here in Prescott at the dealership.

 

I will be doing this until I switch over to the one piece axle.

 

It's cheap insurance for sure. Yu can still keep the dash lite but I never do. With a 231 you know when you're in 4WD!!