242 vs 231 build
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Joined: May 2017
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Model: Cherokee
242 vs 231 build
I’ve came across a nice police package XJ with the 242. I’ve read and read the pros and cons are there any disadvantages to the 242 vs the 231 other than aftermarket support ? Has anyone wheeled one on here ?
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Joined: Nov 2015
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From: Southern OH
Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee(XJ)
Engine: 4.0
The 242 isn't a bad transfer case, the 231 and 242 are about equal in strength. The only drawbacks of the 242 are less aftermarket support and they take longer to shift in and out of 4x4.
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Joined: Feb 2016
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From: Northern New Mexico
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
myself, I prefer the 231. More support as was said is nice when it's used to off-road.
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Joined: Oct 2015
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Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
From the little research I have tried to do about this it appears the 231 is a little sturdier for all you guys who actually wheel your Jeeps. I have a 231 in my '00 but someday I am hoping to swap in a 242. I am older now, my wheeling days are over, but I still own a Jeep. Like to be able to get around when it snows. Thinking the 242 is more suited to what I do with my Jeep. Hoping to combine that with the 8.25 Factory Limited Slip Rear that I hope to come across someday.
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Joined: May 2011
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From: DE
Year: 1988
Model: Cherokee
Engine: I6 4.0
242 uses bigger gears I believe. But more parts if I recall. So while stronger in theory, more things to go wrong. That being said I have no issues with my 30yr np242, driving 5+ hrs in PA snow storms cross state, or wheeling in 4lo on 33s with a rear locker. I have a tom wood's SYE equipped 242 waiting to get swapped in when I want, not needed yet. If I ever complain it hangs a little lower than the 231 I'll clock it up
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We’ll I found a 231j on Craigslist this morning for cheap and a bunch on car-part.com for much cheaper than the cost difference to upgrade the 242. Also found the 8.25 rear for cheap on there too , cheap enough that if I regeared I’d just swap in the 8.25 and avoid wasting money on a super 35 kit.
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CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 3,636
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From: Southern OH
Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee(XJ)
Engine: 4.0
We’ll I found a 231j on Craigslist this morning for cheap and a bunch on car-part.com for much cheaper than the cost difference to upgrade the 242. Also found the 8.25 rear for cheap on there too , cheap enough that if I regeared I’d just swap in the 8.25 and avoid wasting money on a super 35 kit.
Thread Starter
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I’m in a heck of a predicament .... thought the XJ I wanted was sold so found a stock one to modify myself .... the built one is still on market has ax15 .. 4.56’s , upgraded axles ... arb air locker in front , 179k, trans has been rebuilt and has brand new clutch with zero miles , Rusty’s 5.5 in lift, on 33s and has the 8.25 btw , Rusty’s steering and tie rods .. steering box is braced , front diff skid and custom front bumper and JCR for under 5k... or the police XJ bone stock aw4 242 30/35 193k for 1800.... no rust on either . I’ve never been so indecisive in my life ... thoughts ?!
CF Veteran
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 3,683
Likes: 8
From: Northern New Mexico
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
I’m in a heck of a predicament .... thought the XJ I wanted was sold so found a stock one to modify myself .... the built one is still on market has ax15 .. 4.56’s , upgraded axles ... arb air locker in front , 179k, trans has been rebuilt and has brand new clutch with zero miles , Rusty’s 5.5 in lift, on 33s and has the 8.25 btw , Rusty’s steering and tie rods .. steering box is braced , front diff skid and custom front bumper and JCR for under 5k... or the police XJ bone stock aw4 242 30/35 193k for 1800.... no rust on either . I’ve never been so indecisive in my life ... thoughts ?!
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I like the idea of building one too but I know with my budget I’ll run out long before I’d have as much done as the other Jeep however I’d have everything I wanted it to have and not what someone else wanted .
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From: SEMO
Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0 L6
Good deal. I think you'll be better off taking your time and building what you want. It's nice to start with a clean stocker, and it will be a much better learning experience.