1987 2.3L 5-speed manual 4x4

Hey Everyone,

Forgive me if I use the wrong terminology, I'm new to 4wd. The 4wd shift lever isn't working in my truck. I somehow got it stuck in 4H and can't shift back to 2H. I haven't locked the hubs at all so it was never ACTUALLY in 4WD. I CAN shift to N and 4L but I have to push REALLY hard (both hands) to the left and can just barely get it to N or 4L.

However, when I shift the stick back up it will go into 4H but not 2H. The stick will move to the 2H position but it's loose and will easily move between the 4H/2H positions. No matter how hard I push forward it won't go back to 2H.

Have tried turning the wheel and forward/reverse and doesn't help. Really don't think it's binding or anything since I can shift to N/4L and I never locked the hubs. Is this a linkage problem? If so what am I looking for?

Thanks!
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You will need to get under the truck, BLOCK A WHEEL, and have someone shift transfer case while you watch linkage move
Its possible its an internal issue, but your description point more to linkage, i.e. it feels different

 

I does sound like your linkage needs to be adjusted.