1232 often exhibits disturbing movements from the rear, and it seems to be 4ws-related. 1232's speedometer doesn't work as a result of a stripped nylon speedometer drive gear. I just replaced the speedometer drive gear, and it stripped again in less than a mile. I'm assuming this means it needs a tranny rebuild, which isn't affordable anytime soon. A few questions:

1. Does the car need a signal from the speedometer drive gear for 4ws to work correctly?

2. Is there any way to temporarily disable 4ws without removing any of its significant parts, while still keeping the rear wheels from turning? I like 4ws when it works correctly, so I'd like to just disable it until I can have the transmission rebuilt.

Nope, the Speedo doesn't have anything to do with it. The pump for the rear steering is attached to the rear pumpkin, so the turning is based on the speed at the rear wheels. You could cap the feed lines going to the rear, and loops the return lines at the PS reservoir. What makes you think it's the 4ws? If the light is coming on that means your fluid level is low. You transmission may be causing drivability issues though.

Sounds more like worn bushings to me.