Jeep: Having trouble getting out of 4-wheel, grand cherokee laredo, tire diameters

Question
Hi Chris- I have a 1996 Grand Cherokee Laredo w/ approx 107,000 miles.  I have been unable to get it out of 4-wheel for quite some time now.  When I try to put it back into regular drive, it seems OK until you go slow and either turn or go into reverse. When you do that the car sort of jerks and the steering wheel does as well. I end up having to put it back into 4-wheel to stop it from doing that.  Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Ashley,

Believe it or not, the SelectTrac system is *very* susceptible to tire pressures (actually, most 4WD systems are). If the tire pressures are off, then the outside tire diameters are different, and the system has trouble shifting back into 2WD. If all are equal,then you can try putting the trans in neutral while stopped, shift the transfer case into 2H, and then put the trans into drive. Sometimes, you can try putting the Jeep in reverse after switching, and kind of punch the gas a bit (try this in a deserted parking lot). Usually, the more finicky will finally go back into 2WD.

If none of these work, then it's time to visit a mechanic. Being in 4WD on these transfer cases is tough on the drivetrain when on dry pavement. Unless its tire pressures, I'd still visit a shop and have the transfer case checked out -- when was the last time the fluid was changed, and the linkage adjusted? Owning a 4WD vehicle is beautiful until it's time to get it service ;)

Good luck!