What might cause a transfer case in a full-time 4WD vehicle to shift hard?

A hard shift in the transfer case of a full-time 4WD vehicle can indeed be caused by multiple factors, including a clogged shifter assembly and corroded shifting linkage. When the shifter assembly is obstructed by mud or dirt, it can impede the movement of the shifter, making it difficult to engage or disengage the various modes of the transfer case smoothly. This results in a harsh or difficult shifting experience.

Additionally, the shifting linkage, which connects the shifter to the transfer case, can also be affected by corrosion. Corroded linkage may not operate as intended, leading to increased resistance when attempting to shift between modes. This may contribute to a stiff or hard shift when trying to engage different drivetrain configurations.

Since both the shifter assembly and the shifting linkage can independently and collectively impact the ease of shifting in the transfer case, it is accurate to conclude that both factors could be contributing to the hard shift issue. This highlights the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of these components to prevent shifting difficulties in full-time 4WD vehicles.