I’ve been driving my ‘97 daily for a month, but haven’t used the diff-lock yet. It’s in the High Range gear currently. I’d like to use it eventually, but I’ve read to many horror stories of them getting seized up after not being used for so long. Don’t know if the previous owner used it or not. Although, I could assume they might have judging by the amount of mud on the body panels. I can’t get a hold of them to ask though.

What sort of steps can I take with the transfer box to ensure it won’t seize on me? Or do I just roll the dice and put it in Low while in neutral?

 

You can slide the CDL **** to the left from its current position at a stand still or at a slow forward roll (0-5mph) with no problems. It will engage and illuminate an amber light in the dash.

If you push the **** forward from the current position, you must be in Neutral. So, gear selector in Neutral, CDL **** push forward,gear selector back to Drive.

Now, the important thing to remember here is NEVER drive it on pavement while in low range diff lock.

Find a field or something and practice a little. Make sure the CDL engages or you will hear a grinding of the gear. No force should be needed, just a firm push and you are gtg.



The most aggressive position is CDL **** forward and then to the left. This is low range diff lock and is only to be used when absolute traction is needed. And never on a paved or flat road.