Lurching at low speeds / when making tight turns in 4H

[kn752]

I rarely put my JK in 4H (vs 2H), but I just transitioned in anticipation of some weather, and I noticed it is impossible to make smooth tight low-speed turns. Is that a product of the front wheels being engaged an a simple fact of life, or does it sound like something more?

 

[BLACKJKU]

I rarely put my JK in 4H (vs 2H), but I just transitioned in anticipation of some weather, and I noticed it is impossible to make smooth tight low-speed turns. Is that a product of the front wheels being engaged an a simple fact of life, or does it sound like something more?

Are you on dry pavement when this is happening? If so your not supposed to do that, only use 4x4 when the roads have snow or offroading in dirt or mud.

 

[kn752]

I rarely have my JK in 4H (mostly 2H), but when I dropped it into 4H yesterday, I noticed that it is very difficult to maneuver in tight, low speed turns (like in a parking lot). Is that just a fact of life when the front wheels are engaged, or does it sound unusual?

 

[WSS]

Yes, that is normal for 4H on pavement. Your axle U joints are loading then unloading (or proper term "binding") when turning tight. Leave 4H off when on dry pavement. It accelerates wear.