When in 2WD, the front ring and pinion and the driveshaft that the pinion is connected to is stationary (does NOT spin). The only parts that spin while in 2WD are the hubs, cv axles and joints, and the spider gears within the carrier. The ring and pinion and drive shaft going into the transfer case do not move unless the freewheeling clutch is engauged which connects the right front wheel to the spider gears forcing the pinion to spin the drive shaft. That is how I understand it from a diff shop that just put my front locker in.

scottie

97 Montero SR w/Mitsu Adj Shocks & Rear Diff Lock ARB Front Diff Lock 4.9 Ring/Pinion 3.15 transfer box 43:1 crawl ratio 2" suspen lift 2" body lift 2" Gas Tank Lift 35x12.5 MTRs 15x10 Wheels Rock Sliderz ARB front bumper w/12k winch Custom rear bumper