I don't know the exact details of how the center differential works on these KJs with the Selec-Trac case, but I have heard that it's not good to run a shorter spare tire on one side of the axle because that tire will spin faster and damage the t-case.

Well, whenever I go four wheeling I have been using the Full-Time mode when the going isn't too rough. But I keep getting occasional "popping" or "thumping" noises that don't sound good coming from under the Jeep. Is this related to the same principle? Is the center diff. not designed for this?

Can somebody explain to me why it's bad to use Full-Time 4x4 while off-road? It sure makes it easier to steer between the trees, but if it's going to damage something I'll just stick with Part-Time 4x4. Any advice would be appreciated.

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2005 Stone White KJ Limited CRD 4x4
Off-Road Pkg
Trac-Lok
Emu 790s/948s
Skyjacker H7088s rear/Bilsteins front
15x7 Black Rock Lobos/31x10.50 Firestones
GDE HOT Tune + TCM Tune
Euro TC
CB radio
Thrush Turbo muffler
AEM DryFlow filter

It's perfectly fine to use full-time mode while wheelin, the problem is if you get in a situation where you need to lock the center diff (transfer 50% of power to front and 50% to rear axles) it may already be to late and you can't shift it in and you get stuck.

It's easier to steer in full time because it transfer power to the axle with the least resistance, and when turning in tight spaces there is alot of resistance.

You won't damage anything. Use your judgement.

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2004 Silver Liberty Sport 4x4 (gone)
1996 Land Rover Disco I
L.O.S.T #000522 Life Time #JH053535

I have never had much luck off road with full time mode. If I need 4 wheel drive, I generally need the center diff locked. Full time is terrible in deep mud and heavy snow. I love it when I am driving on spotty roads with 1-3 inches of snow but thats the only place I ever use it.

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'02 KJ Sport V6 4x4
3/8" Clevis lift
Rusty's 2.5 lift
255/70/R16 Fleet Farm All Terrain (yes they work)
Class 3 hitch
Hellas
Police Scanner/CB radio
LOST #: JH061986

I only use full-time with snow on the roads, and possibly dirt or gravel roads. Offroad, I use part-time or 4-lo.

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2003 Limited, Silver - L.O.S.T. # 068957 Rockies
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2127390/14
2006 Kawasaki KLR650

so part time will lock the center dif and allow for more traction?

yes

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LOST KJ'S
Where are you going???
Current Jeep: 2004 Jeep Liberty
-Atlantic Blue
-Air Ride Rear Suspension ; OME/Rustys Lift ; Powertrax Locker ; Moog Lower Ball-Joints ; 245/70/16 Yokohama Geolander A/T-S's on MOABS ; Flowmaster 50 SUV
Lost #007082
http://www.cardomain.com/id/jeepjeepster