Problems shifting Jeep transfer case

[Boris and Natasha]

We've just started towing our 2005 Jeep Wrangler and I've experienced problems shifting the transfer case into and out of neutral. I follow the manual's procedure to the letter and the lever just doesn't want to move and I certainly don't want to force it. After a few minutes of fiddling, it will finally slide into the desired positon. Is there a problem with the Jeep or am I doing something wrong?

Thanks,
Boris

[Mike H 2004 Dolphin 5342]

Is the jeep lifted? When jeeps are lifted with a body lift or have the transfer case lowered, you typically need to install a drop bracket for the shifter.

[Boris and Natasha]

Mike H: No lifts, it's strictly stock.

[Mike Canter]

Boris are you shifting the transfer case with the motor running or shut off? If you are doing it with the motor off then try it with the motor running. If the motor is off then do you have the clutch pedal in to take any load off the gears?

[Forest Grump]

If you are going from 4L to 4H or vice versa the engine should be running and in neutral, clutch in. The shifter goes from left to right. If you are going into neutral its straight forward and you can do that pretty much anytime, If going into 2H you can do this on the fly and it is straight forward and a little to the left.

[Boris and Natasha]

Mike: I've had this problem with the engine running and not running--doesn't seem to matter. It's an automatic and the transmission is in neutral.

Forest: I'm having the difficulty going from 4H to N and back.

Thank you all for your responses. I'm beginning to think that the linkage is just tight from never being used before. I sat in the garage last night and shifted from 2H-4H-N and back several times with no problems. Go figure!

[MuckSavage]

Get that thing off-road! Use that 4 wheel drive stick! Have fun! Seriously, I'm glad you got it loosened up!

[Forest Grump]

Just remember as you pull back it will go to your right going forward to you left. You should have no problems going into N with the engine running.

Not using it now that's a sin.

[Tahiti16]

You said the trans is in nuetral, try letting up on the brake just a little when trying to shift the gears may still have a load on them making it more difficult to shift.

[Forest Grump]

Sometimes it is easier to go into 2L, just remember to be stopped and in neutral. Pull hard and to the right. Once in 2L just nudge the lever forward and you should be in N.