Shifting Your Jeep into 4 Low

How to Shift into 4 Wheel Drive

In the past I had a hard time shifting into 4 lo when I was on the trails. Every time my gears would grind which told me I was doing it wrong. I tried several different ways. While I was out in Moab my trail guide, K.L., showed me the "right" way to shift to 4 Lo.  

3 EASY Steps to Shifting your JK or JKU to 4Lo

Step 1: While in Drive shift your transfer case to 4Hi.

Step 2: Once in 4Hi shift your transmission shifter into N. 

Step 3: Now shift your transfer case shifter from 4Hi thru N to 4Lo.  

Slow roll between 1 and 5 mph in neutral. Also shift quickly, don't drag it out. Some Jeeps engage better while slightly moving, and others lock in while stopped. 

The Jeep manual reads:

"With the vehicle rolling at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift an automatic transmission to Neutral or depress the clutch pedal on a manual transmission. While the vehicle is coasting at to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift the transfer case lever firmly through Neutral and into the low-range position."

"Shifting into or out of 4WD low-range is possible with the vehicle completely stopped, however, difficulty may occur due to the teeth of the gears not being properly aligned. The preferred method to engage the low-range is to slow down to 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h) and put the transmission in Neutral. While still moving forward, move the shift lever firmly into the four-low position. Then return the transmission to the desired gear. Refer to your owner's manual for detailed instructions."