Pulled my np231 out today. I think it bit the dust, but taking it to a shop to get looked at first. My question to you all is which case should I put in if it's bad? Another 231 or the 242 with 4 full time?

 

To many factors to give you a good answer. What do you use your jeep for, if you wheel it how often and what type of terrain, are you lifted and if so how much etc.

 

Currently a stock daily driver. Going to get a 3 or 4.5 inch lift soon and become a moderate trail rig on the weekends

 

Do you live in an area where during the winter 4x4 will be very useful on the road?

 

Yes. I use 4x4 for snow driving.

 

Then you'll want a 242, as it's not recommended by the factory to use the 231 on any paved road even if it's snow covered

 

Is the 242 a direct bolt on?

 

Yes and no. Up to 91 t-cases were 21 spline and 92 and later are 23 spline. Stay away from the Grand Cherokee cases because some have different length inputs. Other than that it'll bolt in and your drive shafts will work too.

 

231 is stronger, it's also got more upgraded for it. Whatever you want man.

 

For a snow daily driver and non-serious weekend trail box the NP242 is an excellent choice. At your lift height it will be a little annoying to fix driveline vibes as there is very little aftermarket support for the NP242. Good news is a Hack N Tap SYE is pretty cheap and easy.

 

Let's see it.

From the owner's manual regarding the use of the NP231 Command-Trac transfer case:

"4H Position

This position is designed for TEMPORARY use of 4 wheel drive for traction when driving rain, snow, mud, sand or when driving off-road."

 

amen. and its not like it will explode the minute you hit a dry section of pavement.

and btw op, if you can remove a transfer case from your jeep, chances are you can open it up and have a look for yourself to see what the problem may be inside of it instead of sending it to a shop. just sayin'.

 

According to the manufacturer, the 242 is stronger and has a heavy duty chain option. Also used in Hummers, H2 maybe.
The middle number of the TC is the 'strength' scale of 1 - 7.

 

Just about to reply to that also. The only reason people think the 242 is weaker is because of the differential inside the case compared to the 231 with no differential. Eventually I plan to swap my 231 for a 242 since mine will be a expo rig

 

the jeep 242 is rated for 1480~ ft/lbs
the jeep 231 is rated for 1600-1900 ft/lbs

the GM 242 is a heavier duty version than the jeep 242