How long does it take to install and is it hard? Tracking says package delivered but won't be back home for a couple days...is there a write up with pics to this? Sorry newb here with no mechanical experience until I bought this jeep. Since then have just learned as I go

 

It's super easy took maybe 1/2 hour. I recommend having someone sit in the jeep and hold the shifter while you adjust the linkage makes it that much easier and faster.

 

It's going to take you a while especially if you have no experience. I suggest you have a helper handy. Have them sit in the Jeep and shift through the 4x4 gears while you observe how the stock linkage works underneath. That way, you can have a better idea of how you'll disassemble the stock linkage. Have a big crow/prybar handy to pop the linkage out of the body bracket. There are a series of little green bushings holding it together and with some elbow grease you'll be able to pop it out. After that you just bolt up the new stuff and adjust as necessary. Good luck!

 

Thank you for the review Kris!

 

I figured I'd bump this for some clarification and changes made to the kit:

Our current kit is now for use with the AW4 auto trans and 4.0L motor ONLY! We are sorting out the details on a specific manual trans kit, in addition to the 242 kit . We've had a couple people run into geometry issues with the manual trans, so I've made the decision to re-engineer the kit for that specific application. Also if you have a TC drop, it will require our 242 kit due to the change in geometry.

Thank you for the business and feedback everyone! Without you, the development of our new products wouldn't be possible!

Bryson

 

uh oh...

so if it doesn't work on mine....then what? What's the issues with the manual trans? PM me if necessary.

 

The issue is that the TC sits lower than the auto trans throwing off the angle of the linkage. To correct the angle, a shift lever extension is required (like the 242 cases).

For anyone that has already ordered and have yet to install the kit, I will provide the additional tab and hardware at no cost. Just simply PM me your order number and I will be sure to send out the parts once we have them back from plating!

The linkage rod will need to be cut down however, but the amount may vary depending on the year/model of your XJ and trans. This is something we will still need to determine before offering a specific manual kit.

Thanks for your understanding!
Bryson

 

Still looking for testers? I have a 242 that needs new linkage and I rather upgrade than try to fix the crappy stock linkage. Either way whats the time frame looking like for the 242 kit?

 

I'm also have a 242 in need, automatic.

 

I'll be a tester.... 242 AW4

 

Perfection!
Just ordered a kit, I was actually working on a cam lever already, but the shop I get cnc cutting at is swamped. So I'm on the back burner.

My stock linkage is toast, had to be in it all together o the way home from work ... It was rattling so bad I though my front CV was going out on the highway. Getting in and out of 4lo was a real issue with the state it has degraded too now as well.

Good to see another source for this, I also ran the FST hurdle of emails about it being 'on the way' or just dropping in in the mail, so many times I should have had 50 by now.
On another note I was also wondering how the True Trac Torrington bearing mod has held up? But I'll shoot you a pm about it.

 

Bump! Those of you whom have contacted me about the additional tab should have received a shipping confirmation earlier today. You'll be receiving the shift extension tab along with the updated hardware. The installation will require removing the shifter in order to drill and install the tab. I don't have instructions made up quite yet, but figured I'd get the stuff sent out to you guys first. If you have questions you can always call or PM me. Please just give me some time to respond.

I'll be PM'ing those of you who posted to test out the 242 linkage here soon as well.

Thanks guys!
Bryson

 

cool thanks man. Just send the instructions when you get them done.

 

Very nice upgrade to do. I paid ~40 something for mine from FST over a year ago to finish up the last part of my 4wd swap since I didn't want to mess with the stock linkage junk. I highly recommend this kit for everyone, it is far more simple than the stock stuff and makes shifting a breeze.

Get a TJ in the shop and make a kit for them, I know several people who would jump on that.

 

A TJ should be more or less the same range lever ... Just a shorter connecting rod link. I have a set of TJ linkage and a spare XJ linkage and other than the overall length, they are the same set up.