99 4.0 4wd

Hi all, I have a 242 t case and my understanding is that I need a selectable in the front to retain full time 4wd. My question is, is it a huge upgrade to lock the rear while saving $ to buy a selectable up front, or should I just wait and do it all at once. Also will a spartan or aussie be good, or should I save up for something else in the rear.

I do all my work myself, but am pretty new when it comes to differentials. Your help is greatly appreciated.

 

A Spartan or Aussie work great in the rear and will make a big improvement. I always recommend locking the rear first, unless you have a Dana 35 rear, if that's the case then lock the front first or swap a Chrysler 8.25 in the rear and lock it. Also you don't need a selectable locker in the front with a np242 I have Spartan lockers in both ends and it did fine when I had my np242.

 

Another option for the front is a Truetrack differential, it will work fine when in full time 4X4. A friend's XJ, with a 242, has Truetracks front and rear and he loves it in the snow.
If you have not worked on differentials before, find a friend who has the experience and tools, installing a new differential takes more than hand tools.
It requires a trained eye to determine if the gear patterns are right, along with a press, dial indicator and other specialized tools.

 

I do have a 8.25 so I will be ordering a lunchbox locker soon for the rear. Thanks

 

From my understanding if I install a lunchbox locker in the rear I do not have to reset the gears, therefore not needing specialty tools. I may be wrong so correct me if I am.

 

you are correct