You can find some timely reading material for your new outhouse here:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_b/103-9704796-4537462?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=how+to+s***+in+the+woods
In most areas of Death Valley and the Saline Valley there is no VHF/UHF repeater coverage what-so-ever. Your best bet is study up, learn the code, and go HF.
Try checking to make sure that the shift lever is not being hit by the cutout on the floor. I have heard of people nibbling out additional metal both above and below the 4wd shift lever. Also check for a worn out detent plunger and weak detent spring in the xfer case.
Tom
Just had my fuel tank done. The dealer was more than happy to take care of it. The invoice came to over $600 in parts and $300 in labor -- all for free! They changed all of the hoses, clamps, gaskets and tank straps to boot. There is also a recall on the FJ62 rear seat belt guides, but they are...