Transfer case linkage not shifting properly

[Jakejeep2005]

so a little backstory, a while back i was out mudding and blew out my rear differential. ever since then i haven’t been able to get my jeep into 4wd low. and today i was out wheeling and had my jeep flexed out and i randomly tried to put it in 4low like i do quite often hoping it’ll go in and it surprisingly went into 4 low. the weird thing is that when i got my jeep back onto flat ground i couldn’t get it in low again. i then backed up and flexed my jeep again and i could put it back into 4 low. the only thing i can think of is that i messed the linkage up. any ideas on what this is? and any good linkage brands yall recommend?(preferably website links) thank y’all!!

 

[Jackman]

ditch the linkage and get the savvy cable shifter. You’ll never have to worry about not shifting into 4wd again.

 

[samobius]

Cable shifter for sure. I put the Novak shifter on mine years ago and love it. I read that the Savvy shifter has some improvements but I'm not sure what those are specifically

 

[Chris]

ditch the linkage and get the savvy cable shifter. You’ll never have to worry about not shifting into 4wd again.

X2.

Your issue is related to the factory transfer case linkage and it needing to be adjusted. It’s a poor design.

 

[Jakejeep2005]

ditch the linkage and get the savvy cable shifter. You’ll never have to worry about not shifting into 4wd again.

does the cable shifter use the same bolts and stuff as the stock linkage set up?

 

[pagrey]

If you clean and adjust the factory linkage it works perfect. Sometimes it gets a little bent up, dirty or tweaked. That is no reason to replace it unless you have plenty of money to throw around. The only good reason to get the cable setup is if you do a body lift or tuck that prevents the factory linkage from working.

 

[flyinfish]

I have the Savvy Transfer Case Cable and it is smooth as butter. Even if you don't have a lift you'd benefit from a cable vs linkage.

 

[Jackman]

does the cable shifter use the same bolts and stuff as the stock linkage set up?

If I recall correctly it comes with new bolts.. but I could be wrong. However, It does use the factory mounting location.

 

[pagrey]

Even if you don't have a lift you'd benefit from a cable vs linkage.

I've used both, a properly adjusted factory linkage is very similar. Most people compare cable to old worn out and not adjusted properly factory linkages so obviously it seems better.

 

[thomat65]

I've used both, a properly adjusted factory linkage is very similar. Most people compare cable to old worn out and not adjusted properly factory linkages so obviously it seems better.

Any pointers on adjusting the factory linkage? Or is it pretty obvious what to do once you tear into it? Feel free to tell me to just search the forum haha

 

[BigWheel88]

I'm probably just being blind or my search ability is seriously lacking today, but anyone know if anyone wrote up any install instructions for the Savvy shifter? Most on youtube I have seen have been for other brands.

 

[cpwolf]

I haven’t seen one, but the instructions on the Bleepin Jeep YouTube video basically the same. No noticeable difference in the equipment.

I agree the factory linkage is capable, but it is not super solid in my opinion. It’s been a pain to put back together the multiple times I have and the bushings are super sensitive. You can make them work, but the cable setup is much better.

 

[AndyG]

You have the typical lack of throw to 4 low following a lift, that's fixable with a 13 mm wrench. Check into it while you wait for the cable to come. It isn't the flex but the twisting of the body and frame that is making the change...which means you are pretty far out of the proper throw range. The proper setting is 4 low with the handle about 3/8" from it's max "up" position....the rest rakes care of itself. I like Tri Flo or any similar plastic safe Teflon lube that has cleaning properties. Not dry lubes, but those that wash it and leave a clean film.

Also , in defense of the linkage...it moves ...what moving mechanical part the is exposed doesn't need periodic cleaning and maintenance.

Things get crusty and destroy themselves.

Most linkage threads would never happen if people would stop and consider that lever is connected to something...it's not "wireless"...several somethings actually...all chained together.

Also the Savvy really needs a lube port for a spray straw ... eventually they will get dry. Motion pro motorcycle cables had these at one time.

The feel and function of the Savvy is a true upgrade, you can shift to 4 hi or Low with a 2 fingers...but the linkage has survived for decades...despite the prevalent lack of maintenance they seem to get.

At the minimum, anyone that wheels needs to understand them enough to deal with them on the trail even if they have the cable.... to help out the other guy and make it home.