I have an 89 Cherokee Laredo, it has an optional posi lock front end. My jeep hasn't ever been able to climb hills and always got stuck in the mud. Recently I dropped my rear drive line due to a failure in the U-joints and I thought no big deal I'll just drive home in 4wd and just use the front wheels as the drivers, NOPE, I engage 4wd and the driveline just spins, it doesn't move. It also makes a little bit of a squeaking noise, what's wrong with my front diff????? Why won't it engage and drive forward using the front wheels?

 

You have a CAD axle, not an optional posi anything.


Lock it or replace it.

 

I'm new to this jeep, I haven't done any research, I guess it's just for part time? It's a small red button that pulls out and the light on the dash comes on that says part time. But what's causing it to not move?

 

Post a pic of what you have.

 

Yup.

 

likely have a disconnect axle that needs a little service. there's a joint on the passenger side that connects the outer shaft to the axle. probably needs a little attention. not terribly complicated. Vacuum line operated and those get brittle and crack with age.

squeal could be a bearing in the axle.

search Jeep CAD axle.

 

But, the OP mentions a ****? Might have a selectable axle disconnect which is bad.

 

Some upgrade to a cable disconnect but if its not used often the cable can rust in place in it sleeve.

 

Yep. There was one on my green MJ when I got it. I ditched it and went with Pete M's modification.