I'm planning on swapping out my transfer case, issues with the old one not worth fixing.
Pulling out a 242
Putting in a 231
What do I need to make the swap work correctly? Not real worried about the lights in the dash working for it, more worried about it functioning correctly.
Do I need new linkage? New shift gate? Shift bezel?
Please help, and as always, Thanks!

Jeep Details: 1998 XJ. Lifted 4.5 inches. 4.0L Automatic

 

get one the same year, take the old one out put the new one in. Its when you deviate from the year, or try to put one from a manual in a auto etc. is when you run into issues where inputs need swapped or driveshaft connections.

 

You'll need the shift gate and bezel. It's easier to pull the whole shifter assembly than it is to swap just the gates.

I'd highly suggest getting a boostwerks shift linkage while you're doing the swap.

 

Yes get a new shift linkage from Boostwerks a world of difference from stock.

 

Thanks for the advice guys. Linkage ordered, and I'm picking up the shifter/bezel/shift gate combo this weekend, hopefully a driveshaft too. Then to find a friend to help with the swap.

 

Driveshaft shouldn't be necessary.

 

Installing a SYE while I'm at it.

 

Found a '99 XJ with the select a trac and thinking about scooping it up to replace the command trac in my '00. My XJ is just a daily driver and like the idea of the full time option for when it snows. Trying to research the swap. Kinda of tough to get specifics. My thinking is grab as much as you can. If I do this I am going to take the transfer case, linkage, lever, bezel, anything else in the console, drive shafts, might grab the crossmember, any wiring that I can find, and taking the gauge cluster. I can get all this cheap, hoping it is in good shape, and would rather have stuff and not need it then the other way around. Be a b@#$h to find out in the middle of the swap "Oh damn should have grabbed (fill in the blank)".

 

Crossmember is the same, but the transmission mount is different for a 231 vs 242. Your gauge cluster already has a spot for the full time light, but the wiring to the switch on the transfer case is different and not easily swapped. Grab the connector for the 242 at least.

 

Trans mounts are the same.

 

All you'll need is the new bezel and linkage, you don't need a new shifter or shift gate. They're the same.

 

no the shift gates are different.

 

The metal that goes through the floor where the shifter handle goes through? I swapped in my 231 and didn't have to change it?

 

the pattern is different. Sure the handle still can function correctly but it's difficult for it to stay in specific location due to different notches on the gates.

I still 100% would always recommend to change the shift gates anyway.

 

Well I learned something new.. I haven't had any issues with mine yet but that's good to know!