Have a 99 xj auto with the np231, 3 inch lift and about a 3/4 inch homemade transfer case drop. I've been having a bunch of times recently where I've put it in 4hi and when I try to shift out it doesn't always shift out. Then when I try to shift back in when it hasn't properly shifted out it grinds. Would this be a problem with the transfer case drop or is my transfer case wearing out? If the transfer case is wearing out would I be able to get one out of any xj with the auto transmission?

 

Crawl under your jeep and check the linkage. There is a small adjuster screw on one of the rods that can tighten it up. May help in your case.

 

The Boostwerks linkage should fix the issue if you want to upgrade. It's very well made and simple to adjust. The stock linkage sucks. It reminds me of that old "Mousetrap" board game or some Rube Goldberg device.

 

No need to upgrade linkages just adjust your linkage and all will be good, had the same issue with mine several yrs. ago.

 

Swap it out for the boostwerks linkage. The stock linkage is gonna be so rusted from road salt from where you live. Save yourself the frustration.

 

It was a bit too cold to crawl under the Jeep today but it's only the 3rd or 4th winter this Jeep has seen Wisconsin winters. Very minor rust and I still haven't found a bolt that was rusted except for the seats. I think there's a leak somewhere in the cab because the only major rust is on the inside floorboards and it's not too bad. I did take the carpet out. I think tomorrow I'll check the linkage because it's supposed to be 20 degrees and next weekend should have snow.

 

Boostwerks Linkage FTW!

 

I'll take it the boostwerks is worth getting. Unfortunately I don't quite have the money anymore as I got myself a welder today.

 

Save money for real needs adjusting the linkage is free.

 

true, but if you're bushings are shot, they're not free...and that's if you can even find them anymore.

 

Still sold at auto parts stores in help section. And a lot cheaper than new linkages.

 

It all depends on the level of rot involved. If the linkage is fairly rust free (as the OP mentioned) then just adjust it. If the linkage looks like it was just dredged up off of the ocean floor (like mine did) then replace/upgrade. I would rather spend the $30 and fix it once than screw with the POS stock linkage.

 

95+% of all the linkage's just need to be adjusted and are easy to repair as stated prior.

Money was not an issue with mine being replaced but just spent it in other places where it was needed.

 

Just adjusted it, a light coat of surface rust but not bad. Just shifting the lever in the driveway, it seemed to be better.