So, I was thinking today and even some yesterday about Jeeps 4x4 system that is in my 1989 Cherokee.
So, it snowed here 8inches and I went out playing. I have the Laredo edition with F/T and P/T 4WD.
Though, the Full-Time was not a standard thing for all models. P/T was like option 1 and F/T & P/T was option 2. A lot of people out there with the P/T system, but not the F/T system.


Why would Jeep do this?
I have been putting around this entire time in F/T for the past 3 days, on and off the road. The conditions on the road could handle engaging P/T, but there really is no need for it. Now, with how the roads are, they are semi clean but not doable for P/T, so you loss the safty with the F/T with ice, and slush. Also, F/T was a lot more fun going crazy in a field than when I used P/T. I was able to toss the Jeep about more and easier too. I only used P/T twice and that was when I got bogged down in some super deep snow (most likely wouldn't have cause I have a/s and nearly bald tires) and the other was when I popped the front left tire messing around right off a trail.

After really using the system today, it just seems like F/T should have been the first option with the P/T as the second option.
Get to use the F/T system a lot more often, and the P/T system for being all you get is a lot of overkill in may situations.

IMO, should have done 4WD F/T as option 1 with it being permanent and the P/T system would have been the upgrade to the F/T system.
Have a lot more Jeeps on the road with a more usable/versatile 4WD system.

 

I dont know a lot about these 4wd systems but from what I understand the P/T is for quick shifting. You can go from 2WD to 4WD on the fly with the P/T option. If you had to shift all the way down for P/T that could cause a problem. If you need to shift quickly for ice or mud (light duty work) the P/T is the quick option. If you plan on being off road or 4WD for an extended period then 4wd low is best. Again I dont know much about these systems but that is what my limited experience has taught me.

 

I am sure you have a good understanding of the 4wd system but I think you would find most older 4wd systems set up the same way. My old 4runner and Tacoma had the same set up. Check out the link about 4wd systems. It explains some things that you have mentioned.

http://www.4x4abc.com/4WD101/definition_part.html