It was a 450 mile ride up there. I can't explain it, but once I saw it something just told me to walk away. I can't say it was a complete waste of time [drove for 18 hours] as I saw some really pretty scenery and have a new appreciated value for my truck,

- it drove for 18 hours no problems
- realize my truck is in GREAT condition.

The paint on the hood and roof was faded and peeling, which is completely understandable. The leather was bad and such, but its not really like I was surprised, I mean it was a 500$ truck. But, something just told me no.

The engine looked pretty clean,

 

I can respect that. I go with that same feeling lots of times.

 

The transfer case acts like an open differential between the front and rear shafts. If you put it in neutral, it just dis-engages from the transmission. The driveshafts are still live between each other. It would be like pulling a regular RWD car with one tire on the ground at 60 for several miles.

When you lock the t-case, it gives 100% equal power to the front and rear driveshaft. With it unlocked, you can still spin one tire and be stuck.