Hey there. This will be the ultimate noob fodder for you guys I'm sure, so bear with me. Strong first post, I know.

I'm looking to get my first XJ provided that the tax refund fairy sprinkles her magic dust of money goodness upon me.

The sticky at the top of this section was extremely helpful in explaining the transmission, chassis, and transfer case differences between the different years. I don't know how to explain what I'm asking very well...but do different models of '90's XJs have different 4WD shifter options?

For instance, my wife has a 2001 WJ. It has the Selec-Trac option. Which of course has selectable 2WD, 4 part-time, 4 full-time, and 4 Lo. What kind of 4WD modes are available on certain XJs?

I'm really hoping to get something in the '94-96 range. I honestly just like the paint/trim schemes more in this range. But the 4WD mode thing is my biggest question.

Thanks in advance.

Edit: I just realized this was posted in OEM tech. If it could be moved to Cherokee Talk, that would be great. I apologize.

 

xj's came with either the np231 or the np242


Selec Trac (NP 242) has 2wd, 4 part time, 4 full time, N, and 4 lo

Command Trac (NP 231) has 2wd, 4 part time, N, 4 lo

 

sthon, that is incredibly helpful and simplified it greatly. Thanks!

Next two questions then:

1. Is the np231 or np242 more desirable than the other by the off-road crowd?

2. Is one year range of XJ just in general terms (all things considered) more desirable than the other by the off-road crowd?

 

The np231 is supposed to be a little stronger. It really depends on where you live. If you live where it snows the full time 4x4 in the np242 is nice.

All years of XJ's do great off road, some people will suggest staying away from 00-01 because of the weak head castings on the 0331 head.

 

That and the low pinion front axle which is less desirable when lifting.

 

NP231 Has a slightly better aftermarket support. What are your plans for you XJ?
DD/Weekend warrior, dedicated off-roader etc.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Cherokee_%28XJ%29

that'll give ya a lot to consider in general

231 = far better after market support
242 = better on road manners as it acts as a differential and disengages when cornering in 4WD[FT]

there is the debate that the 231 is stronger but ive yet to see much to back that statement up, if it is is very minimal and if your beating on it that hard you should upgrade to a better case.

84-96 body style remained the same, 97+ got a steel hatch rounded front clip full door windows and interior.

84-86 engines I4, GM V6
87-90 engines I4, Renix I6 4.0L
91+ Chrysler HO I6 4.0L gradual changes over the years

pre91 standards had the vacuum disconnect front axle which is considered less desireable by many however some like it. Autos had the solid passenger side axle.

theres also low pinion and high pinion front axles to look out for, HP is better.

thats it for now.

 

Some early 92's had the Renix also.

 

not unless someone put one in it, chrysler discontinued the use of the RENIX 4.0L in 1990, it was replaced with Chrysler High Output 4.0L in 1991

 

So much good info.I now know I have select trac and the np 242 transfer case.Also good to know the difference between part time an full time.I would have thought that part time would be the choice for road use.I would have been wrong and blown my t case.