Ok. I used the search function for my answers, but, with so many to go through, my search is a somewhat daunting task.

Scenario:
I installed a 242J to replace the severly cracked (broken cleanly in half) NP231 in my XJ. I would like to know the level of difficulty for replacing the shifter with one from a WJ or a ZJ in order to gain the full range of gears in the 242J. Or.....should I just swap in a replacement NP231?

Any help is appreciated!

 

Why use the shifter from a WJ or ZJ? The XJ came with a 242 option, so if you find an XJ shifter assembly, then you are good to go (bolt in). Then again, if you do decide to just go with a 231, let me know: I'll take that 242 off your hands .

 

I think you can use the 231 shift handle but must retain the 242 shift mechanism with the proper detents.

 

You guys are awesome!! There appears to be nothing wrong with the shifter. Obviously I had no idea about the 242 option since I was aiming toward the WJ ZJ or shifter. I like the fact that I will have 4 wheel high. Kinda speeeeeeds things up a bit

I bought a 9 month old XJ 4x2 in 2002. Just got rid of it about 6 months ago. Bought my first XJ 4x4 a year ago and it has been a project vehicle. It's a 99.

I am working toward becoming an XJ guru. I just gotta spend more time with my project if it's ever gonna happen

It gives me trouble getting it into and out of gear with the 242 TC. The vacuum hoses are connected. Is there an adjustment in the shifter assembly that I should be aware of?

My Hanes manual covers many things, but, the shifter option is not one of them. The 242 came out of a police XJ so it should work just fine once I get the shifter adjusted.

Since there are more shifter positions, do I just need to create more room in the slotted area where the shifter slides and then change out the gear indicator, or am I making things more difficult than necessary?

Thanks again.

 

Most 242s are non disco front D30 axle units. All factory 242 equipped Jeeps are non disco type.

 

There is an adjuster for the linkage and it is done from under the vehicle. There are several threads out there that cover proper adjustment of the linkage.

Also, the 242 can be finicky for getting into and out of 4wd. Some people report that driving several feet in reverse helps the situation, but that is just 'net knowledge. I've got 2 231's so I can't confirm that.

 

Many thanks. I will definitely search the other threads.

Happy trails.