97 wrangler transfer case problem?

[Huffy]

97 auto 4 banger ,when this jeep is in 2wd ,should i be able to crawl under it and spin front driveshaft with my hand? this is a new purchase for my daughter. I know that my tacoma driveshaft spins but its a 5 spd.

[fredjacksonsan]

Yep, as the transfer case doesn't care if it's hooked up to an auto or a manual trans. If you're worried, try putting it in 4wd and stop with the engine off. I'd bet you won't be turning the driveshaft then.

[fredjacksonsan]

Huffy, thanks for the private email. My reply, while having a bit of humor in it, was helpful if you'll stop and look at it for a second, and it was not a "smart---" answer. Please note that I first answered your question about the front driveshaft turning while in 2wd, then offered a suggestion to put it into 4wd, which would connect the transfer case to the front output shaft, not allowing the front shaft to turn.

Take some time to read the response before you get crazy on it. Some of us try to put some humor in; if I was being a smartass then I wouldn't have used the smiley.

[fredjacksonsan]

And also, welcome to AF. There's a lot of good people here, and much more than just vehicles.

[fredjacksonsan]

Originally Posted by Huffy

hey Fred , My question is that i cannot turn the ft driveshaft when it is in 2wd,should i be able to spin it with my hand,while it is in park?Is the transfer case stuck in 4wd? Thanks

Tried to answer your email, it's not set up for you to receive pm's through AF so answering here.

The front differential of the Wranglers are always engaged; that is, the driveshaft is hooked up the the front axle at all times and spins as you're going down the road. I just went out and tried to turn the front on my '04, and it won't turn.

The engagement/disengagement for 4wd occurs in the transfer case, which should be disengaged when 2wd is indicated.

You could always put jackstands under both axles, start it, and "drive" slowly in 2wd, see if the rears only turn.