Towing Issues: flat towing, wrangler yj, paint marker

Question
I will be flat towing my 92 Wrangler YJ.It is a 5 speed manual 4wd. Do I need to remove either or both of the driveshafts and should the tranny be in neutral during towing?Thanks,K

Answer
If you were four wheeling, verify that it's in 2wd before you start. You want the front hubs to unlock. Refer to the owner's manual on the proper procedure. If you don't have it then put the transfer case in 2wd and backup 15-20 feet. This will unlock the front hubs if you automatic front locking hubs.

If you decide to disconnect the driveshafts the first thing is block the wheels and set the parking brake so it doesn't roll. The next step is always debated but I do it everytime, take a paint marker or scribe and mark/note the relation of the driveshaft/u-joint to the yoke. By doing this when you reinstall the u-joint, it will be in the same spot before the disconnect. I have had a few problems in the past with vibrations and u-joints not mating back together correctly. Then you can disconnect the u-joint straps at the yoke on the front and rear axles. Make sure the u-joint cups/caps don't come off the u-joint, tape them them up! Bungie cord the driveshafts to the frame. It doesn't matter what position the transmission or transfer case are in as they are not a factor once the driveline is disconnected. Make sure you follow all the other precautions for flat towing a vehicle.

Another great resource for all jeep owner's is http://www.jeepforum.com/ There is more information and debates over disconnects or transfer case in neutral. My reasoning for the disconnect is less and wear, any possibility of transfer case/transmission damage and the only possible damage is a $10 u-joint that can be found at any auto parts store. By possible damage is if you dropped the u-joint cap and lost some needle bearings. Any other questions just ask.