Front end shakes in 4x4

I have an issue I need solved before the first snowfall. At the end of last season when my 1994 C/K Pickup was engaged into 4 wheel drive(4 Hi) the steering column would vibrate to where it was undrivable. But when disengaged it was fine? What could the problem be? Haven't had the chance to test it lately don't want anything to break to where I can't use the truck to get to work. Any info would be appreciated.

I have an issue I need solved before the first snowfall. At the end of last season when my 1994 C/K Pickup was engaged into 4 wheel drive(4 Hi) the steering column would vibrate to where it was undrivable. But when disengaged it was fine? What could the problem be? Haven't had the chance to test it lately don't want anything to break to where I can't use the truck to get to work. Any info would be appreciated.

The only time I've seen that happen was when it was in 4x4 on a paved surface (forgot to kick it back into 2hi after taking a shortcut). Needless to say, don't do that. 4x4 is only for when you are stuck, or traveling very slow on snow/ice. It is much easier to loose control at medium/high speeds in 4x4.

Could be a bent front CV or maybe your transfer case has gone bad.

I also agree with what j-Ri said which could cause cv bends or TC damage

Thanks for the reply guyz. I'll look into it. I understand the 4x4 thing but I believe you should be able to go 10-15 MPH on smooth slick pavement for a short distance. It just never reacted like that before. I never beat on it so I know it's nothing I did.

have you inspected the front driveshaft for bad universal joints or a worn slip yoke? if it were a damaged cv-joint you would feel it all the time because the front hubs do not unlock, the front differntial does. therefore the cv shafts spin the entire time you are moving.