it’s not so much TJ vs XJ differences but the np242 vs np231 differences. because of the extra position the shifter plate is slightly different
if you look at the plate here you can see the difference
if you look at the plate here you can see the difference
I have an extra NP242 shifter if you want to try one. Can slip it into a flat rate box and send it to you.
I always wanted to do this to a tj, did my 04 wj with a v8 hd242 even got the drive line with it, I think I still have the 249 in the attic sold the wj 2 years ago...
Alright guys... important update. np242 is installed and running!! here in MD we get a lot of flash floods so I have been able to test its usability and I will say I am very impressed. turning is no where near as bad at full lock. When driving above 20 mph, it feels no different from 2wd, (except for the lack of oversteer in wet conditions). I took it on some light trails near me and confirmed that part time 4WD and 4WD lo also work.
Installation was no different from replacing a normal np231 according to the 4x4 shop that did it for me. I explained what I was doing and showed them the quote from novak. only additional steps are installing the different shifter assembly and adjusting the z-gate, which simply involves loosening a bolt and then putting the shifter and transfer case into 4lo, then re tightening. I ended up swapping the handle from the inside afterwards for my original handle and changing out the shift pattern insert for one from a junkyard '03 liberty with an np242. it can easily be removed with a small screwdriver as there is no adhesive holding it in place, only a friction fit in the molded rubber handle.
All in all, I definitely recommend the swap if you're in need of a new transfer case on your daily driver, as it is both cheaper and more functional. just make sure it is from a 97-01 XJ, since it has the hole for the mechanical speedo (which no other models had i believe). Ideally, I would have an automatic since they were never mated to manuals from the factory, but I haven't had any bad results so far.
Lastly, want to thank wildman and everyone else for the help. I know it's been a while but unfortunately I lost my job during covid and all jeep related upgrades had to be put on hold. After almost 2 years, I finally completed my first major mod!
Installation was no different from replacing a normal np231 according to the 4x4 shop that did it for me. I explained what I was doing and showed them the quote from novak. only additional steps are installing the different shifter assembly and adjusting the z-gate, which simply involves loosening a bolt and then putting the shifter and transfer case into 4lo, then re tightening. I ended up swapping the handle from the inside afterwards for my original handle and changing out the shift pattern insert for one from a junkyard '03 liberty with an np242. it can easily be removed with a small screwdriver as there is no adhesive holding it in place, only a friction fit in the molded rubber handle.
All in all, I definitely recommend the swap if you're in need of a new transfer case on your daily driver, as it is both cheaper and more functional. just make sure it is from a 97-01 XJ, since it has the hole for the mechanical speedo (which no other models had i believe). Ideally, I would have an automatic since they were never mated to manuals from the factory, but I haven't had any bad results so far.
Lastly, want to thank wildman and everyone else for the help. I know it's been a while but unfortunately I lost my job during covid and all jeep related upgrades had to be put on hold. After almost 2 years, I finally completed my first major mod!
I've never had a 242 apart, but I'm assuming the awd function engages the mechanical differential for the front and rear axle speed differences. When you shift to regular 4wd does it lock out that differential and function like normal 4hi in a 231? Any idea if that mechanical differential is a weak point at all? I haven't done much research on the 242, but does anyone know if it is similar in strength to a regular Chevy 241 with the larger planetary vs the 231?
From what I've gathered, this is like the Rubi locker pumps. The Isuzu guys are telling everyone that they can get them from TJ's and the TJ guys are telling everyone that they can get them from Isuzu rigs.
Or, the XJ folks swap them out for 231's to get rid of a few weaknesses.
Interesting, guess I'll add it to my daily craigslist search and see if I can add it to my pile of Tcases
question 1: yes, it has all the same positions as a 231, plus the extra function in full time 4wd (including same crawl ratio in 4lo as 231); for context, they were offered in XJ as an upgrade and meant to be used in low grip situations on asphalt (i.e. rain, slow, sleet, gravel, etc) where there may only be patches of rain/snow and some areas may still be dry.
question 2: no, not that I know of (within reason). when I originally researched the swap, I spent a lot of time of XJ threads and read up on owner experience on general reliability and maintenance requirements. from what I found, the only reason anyone would "upgrade" to a 231j was to installed a sye (wasn't offered at the time) instead of a hack n tap, which is inherently weaker (although now there is an aftermarket sye for the np242). obviously, if you wheel it super hard it might have issues, but in that case you can just find a 242HD from a police issue 99-01 XJ. this is probably the holy grail for a 242 swap as i believe the only other vehicle it was offered in (that had a mechanical speedo) was a hummer.
question 3: for specs, I found this quote from an XJ forum:
(Posted by TNT)
"A Dodge NV242HD from a Durango or Dakota has a 32 spline output shaft a remote cooler and the wide chain.
A stock Durango case is rated at 2048# of torque, the Hummer case is rated at 2430# of torque and the XJ case is rated at 1486# of torque.
The 231HD case has a rated lower torque rating then either of the 242HD cases.
The Hummer NV242HD AMG case doesn't have the 2wd high range."
-link
so in conclusion, you could either get a 242HD from an police issue XJ and have roughly the same strength as a durango case, or upgrade a normal 242 with hummer parts (larger planetary and wider chain), (this would be pointless if you don't also get an sye kit+driveshaft with either one if your going to do any heavy wheeling/you're lifted). that would give you the strongest case. theoretically, the np231HD is weaker than either option.
Thank you for the in depth answer, that is a lot of good info to get me started.
I've got an older J10 I'm currently doing an LS swap in to and was pretty set on using a Chevy 241 when I swap the 2wd 4l60e for a 4wd. After reading your post the Durango/Dakota 242 sounds like it might be a pretty sweet option to have the AWD ability since I won't be needing a speedo gear.
I appreciate all the info, I'll keep researching from here
Steve Arce
New Member
FYI, my 99 has a 242 in it, and I am quite fond of it. I have used 242's in nearly all the jeeps I have owned (Cherokee, G Cherokee and Liberty), It has run great over the years, through trails in Colorado and Utah in addition to being a daily driver.
FYI, it was mated to the typical 4.0 and AT until last year, it is now mated to a LS1 and a chevy AT, been running fine.
FYI, it was mated to the typical 4.0 and AT until last year, it is now mated to a LS1 and a chevy AT, been running fine.
Coachgeo
TJ Enthusiast
Both, doesn't matter which transmission. I've owned a few Grand Cherokees with the 242 t-case and auto transmissions. And knew someone who'd done this swap on their TJ with a manual transmission.
Coachgeo
TJ Enthusiast
Yes I think they are as far as length goes but there are work arounds to make it fit.
I believe the input shaft length issue is with the older np242 from grand cherokees. If you get it out of a 97-01 cherokee then it should match right up.