I have a 1986 Jeep Grand Cherokee, V8 5.2. Do I need to do anything to activate?
They didn't make Grand Cherokees in '86, so I assume you mean '96?
I'm also assuming it is indeed a 4x4 and not a two wheel drive...sorry, I have to ask!
All the V8's GC's were Quadra-Trac. Please confirm this with what is label on your shifter. If so, it should say "4Hi, N, and 4Lo".
The Quadra Trac system has a viscous coupling. Meaning, that when the rear wheels start to slip, it heats the coupling up, and engages the front wheels.
This system typically put about 95% of the power to the rear wheels, and only about 5% goes to the front during normal driving, so it's essentially in 2wd mode.
When you put the transmission shifter into neutral, and pull your transfer case down to 4lo, then you have all four wheels locked. Do not drive like this on dry pavement.
To answer your questions, the 4x4 should automatically engage when the rear wheels start to slip. It is a seamless transition and you really won't be able to tell.
If you're in real bad snow, then pull it down to 4lo. That'll lock all four wheels in and give you greatest traction.
Drive safe.
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