Only 3 Wheels Spin in 4x4

[richcraig11]

I just got our 1978 CJ5 up and running for my son to drive after it sat for about 5 years. We wanted to test the 4 Wheel drive so I put it up on jack stands and locked the locking hubs, they were really tight but I got them engaged. When I put it in 4 High and let the clutch out all wheels turned except the front left. It did a little at first then stopped almost like something was binding. I thought it might be the hubs since they were tough to engaged so I purchased new hubs and installed them today. The new ones are easy to engage but still having the same issue. It's almost like something is binding the front left wheel. I can turn it by hand but then it stops again. Could there be an issue with the axle itself?

 

[Kane]

That is due to the open front differential. If you hold the tire that is moving then that tire will starting spinning while the one you grab will stop.

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[Patrick]

A safer way to test is to shut off the engine, keep the hubs and 4x4 engaged. Then manually rotate one wheel. The opposite wheel should normally turn in the opposite direction. The pinion yoke should not spin.

 

[Kane]

A safer way to test is to shut off the engine, keep the hubs and 4x4 engaged. Then manually rotate one wheel. The opposite wheel should normally turn in the opposite direction. The pinion yoke should not spin.

Lol. I guess my way did sound a bit dangerous.

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[TnCJ]

As already stated, it is completely normal for an open differential.

 

[RiverandSand]

Apparently your rear axle has some form of locker as both wheels turned. If it was open you would only have had two wheels turning in your test.

 

[richcraig11]

OK thanks all. That's a relief.