I'm finishing the 97 this weekend (intake gasket replacement). I have only had it in 4 wheel three times. The last time I used it I could not get the feel for getting it back in to 2 high without grinding it a bit back into 2 high.


Is this an anomaly on the 94's to 97's or do I just need to get a feel for it. If
there's a handy tip, I'd appreciate it? K.

 

If it is grinding shifting out of 4 hi, to 2 hi, you have some internal issues. You are disengaging things.... it shouldn't grind at all.

Check the fluid level first..... takes ATF +4, just like the trans.

 

No, from neutral it goes into 4h or 4l just fine. Runs in 4 wheel low just fine. When I go back to neutral and seek to insert back to 2h for normal 2 wheel driving I'm not finding a smooth insertion (eventually I did). I'll check fluid levels, but I'd say it's something
I have to get a feel for when leaving 4L in neutral to return to 2 H. Thanks,. K.

 

What is the shift pattern on your T-case? On my 96, (which should be the same as your 97....) 2Hi is all the way forward, 4Hi is one click back toward the seat, next is neutral, and then 4Lo.

Don't recall exactly the pattern on the newer ones...... but, I don't think you had to pass thru neutral from 4Hi to 2Hi?

 

4L
N
2H
4H

on my 01

 

My 97 is just like HeyYou's with 2H at top, 4H middle and 4L bottom. So while in neutral I leave 4H up to 2H. When last I found it I was having to hunt (in other
words straight up from 4H did not work 3rd time). I did of course find it without
the grind.


My 98 is just like Ham Bone's 01. My 98 is smooth straight up 12:00 from neutral to 4L and back to neutral for 2H driving. I think I'm asking on the 97 if I shift while in neutral from 4H, is it straight up to 12:00 for going back into normal 2H driving?


Thanks guys, the weather got me today so we will finish her up Monday and I can
apply whatever you advise me then (after checking fluid level). K.

 

This might help to clear things up.

Taken from my owners manual.

2H to 4H or 4H to 2H

Shift while moving at any legal speed. The shift will be easier if you momentarily release the accelerator pedal. Apply a constant force while shifting the transfer case lever. 4H is to be used for traction when driving in rain, snow, mud or sand or when driving off-road. Never drive in 4H on dry paved roads.

Note: During cold weather (below 30F.) it may be more difficult to shift the transfer case while the vehicle is moving. If so, stop the vehicle and shift. Move the vehicle forward or backward to complete positive engagement of the gears.

4H to 4L or 4L to 4H

Slow the vehicle to under 3mph shift an automatic transmission to N (Neutral) or depress the clutch on a manual transmission. Shift the transfer case lever to the right and pull firmly down to 4L. Do not pause in transfer case N (Neutral).

Note: Pausing in transfer case N (Neutral) in vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission may require shutting the engine off to avoid gear clash while completing the shift.

Do not attempt to shift to or from 4L while transmission is in gear or clutch is engaged.

 

Thanks guys, I now see my issue. I am printing this off and thank all of you for taking time to respond. K.

 

Perfect guys................I had to use 4H & 4L today on the 97. It was slick as a whistle! K.