Ajp11758

Hey, I've just purchased a 2002 GC with 110k miles. The truck came with no manual so I could use some help. I just shifted into 4wd for first time. Although it switched, the shift was extremely tight. It too a lot of effort to get into different gears. How do I aleivate this problem. also I'm confused as to witch 4wd" to use for what. There full,part, and low. And what would I need the Neutral for? Thanks in advance
AJ

Bustedback

There should be a label on the drivers side visor explaining the use of the gears. If the transfercase hasn't been shifted in a long time it can be difficult to get the shifter to move.

dave1123

Okay, my '00 WJ has a vanity mirror where said label should be. You have the 242 Selectrac t/case. The 2 4WD selections are for different surface conditions. The Part Time is for slippery or loose conditions ONLY because it locks BOTH axles in 4WD and can cause binding when cornering on dry surfaces. The Full Time is for 4WD at any time you don't feel you have enough traction like in patchy snow or heavy rain. There is a differential type device in the t/case that allows the axles to turn at different speeds, like when cornering. Some people say you shouldn't use Full Time for extended periods, but with the nasty weather conditions here in the northeast lately, I haven't had my jeep OUT of Full Time in 2 months except for a couple of occasions. I haven't found any problems yet.

The neutral is there because the Low Range gears are larger so power must be removed to mesh the gears. You have to come to a complete stop or a walking roll to shift into Low Range. Low is also Part Time. Neutral can also be used for towing the jeep without damaging the transmission. Low Range is NOT syncronized, so you have to "feel" the gears for engagement. Most of the time you have to shift the TRANSMISSION into park or neutral to accomplish this shift without grinding the gears.

Your WJ has a shift cable rather then a linkage, so any binding of the lever is in the shifter itself. A little lube will help.

Check out wjjeeps.com for a bunch of info on your jeep, even stuff like changing light bulbs.