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Thread: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

  1. #1
    Join Date
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    Default 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    I'm new to the XJ. Just picked it up a week or so ago. The 4 wheel drive is "intermittent" at best, or doesn't work at all. I don't think 4 low ever worked, but 4 hi did for a few runs.

    I put it on stands and it shifts into 4 hi, and the shaft is running to the front axle, but the wheels ain't turning.

    All info is appreciated!

    1990 Cherokee Laredo, 4.0 straight six. Auto trans, Transfer case and axles unknown.

    Also, advise me on a cheap, easy way to lock the rear end. This Jeep is pretty much off-road only, so I'm not worried about street performance. I've got a 73 Commando with a spool I've been driving for years, so I'm used to it.

  2. #2
    prerunner1982's Avatar
    prerunner1982 is offline Level: Uber Jeep Cherokee Trailer Queen
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    Default Re: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    Sounds like the Central Axle Disconnect (CAD) may be malfunctioning. It could be internal to the CAD or that the vacuum line has a leak. There are kits to make the CAD cable operated or to permanently lock the CAD in position. You can also swap shafts from a non-CAD axle and block off the hole in the axle tube to eliminate it all together.
    1993 2 door 4x4 4.0 5 speed
    1997 4 door 4x2 4.0 auto RIP 6/6/2016
    2000 4 door 4x2 4.0 auto


    Day of Dirt Adventure

  3. #3
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    Default Re: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    That was it. Thanks!

    Went out, crawled under and the two-prong vacuum hose was knocked off. Plugged it back in and went out and climbed a steep ole' hill!

    I found an article how to bolt the fork in place permanent like. I'll go that route when I get around to it.

    Next stop: Rocket Science.

  4. #4
    Join Date
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    Default Re: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    Yours, if still stock, is gonna have the Dana 35 c-clip rear axle. It's not known for its strength. There's no spool made for it to my knowledge and a a lunchbox locker start just over 200. Other than that are more expensive options or welding it.

    Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

  5. #5
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    Default Re: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    Hey, I got a welder!

  6. #6
    Join Date
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    Default Re: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    Congrats, what are you going to make?
    230 hp 4.3L Chevy
    Built 4L60E with manual lockout
    Atlas 4 speed
    Griffin radiator
    On board air
    Warn 9.5ti on custom bumper
    7.5" RE front and bastard pack rear on custom long arms
    30 gal gas tank
    lockers
    And a bunch of other stuff

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Oct 2011
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    29,260

    Default Re: 90 XJ 4 wheel not working. What to look for?

    Lol, a locker!

    Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

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