Jeep Cherokee 4WD not disengaging properly

I had to install the temporary spare tire [ donut] on the right rear & drove about a half mile in 4wd. When I disengaged 4wd it felt as if the front wheels were still engaged. I shifted into reverse & backed up & this unlocked the front wheels. After repairing the tire & installing I engaged 4wd & noticed a whining sound coming from the front end, after disengaging 4wd I had to shift into reverse & backup to unlock the front wheels again. Did driving in4wd with the temp tire do damage to the transfercase / front auto locking hubs. This a 2001 jeep cherokee with 124500 miles & 4.0 6 cylinder engine