How to test my 4x4

I just bought a 99 cherokee XJ with 40k miles on it and have noticed the part time light doesnt come on when i put it into 4H or 4L. I live in the city right now but would like to make sure it is good for the snow and if i do want to take it off-road.
Apart from taking it to the mud what is the easist way to check the 4x4 - putting it up on jack stands maybe?
That 4L is tough to get into as well and shifting from D to R is clunky, but from reading other posts these are common and normal...... i hope!

You can check the vehicles 4 wheel drive on jack stands... but be very careful... don't race the engine and do it in a safe spot without anyone standing in front of or behind the vehicle while doing the test... And do not get under it!!! If you do get under it after the engine is off make sure you check to see if the jack stands are stilll secure...

4l put the tranny in neutral... with the vehicle rolling slowly put it in 4l... 4l is for very slow speeds

thanks guys i think i will try the jack stand approach.

You could take it anywhere that is "off road" and test it. Asphalt is none too forgiving to the steering in part time 4h or 4l. Some grass at slow speed would be just fine. If there's any trouble getting it out of 4, back up a touch, then back in drive.

ha well i got to find out if my 4x4 worked, and it was alot easier than jacking it up. We got the first snow here in New York this weekend and i had a great time finding out how a real 4x4 handles in the snow! Hail to the king of 4x4's! Long live the king...... as long as you give if regular oil changes and maintain it properly ha!

Would like to fix that part time light though.

Sweet times you bastiches are having up there! I'M SOOO D*MNED ENVIOUS!!

As far as that light is concerned, it's prolly just an old bulb that went out years ago. Pull her into a warm spot and have some fun with your new gyrl. ;p

Also, since you're in an area that would potentially use the 4WD more than most, be sure to get the Transmission and Transfer Case and Differentials x2 Fluids Checked/Changed/Maintained.

~Have Fun!