Want to use a NP242 with AX-15... SWAP Q's

[comanche09]

Hi all,

 

Anyone have this setup?

 

Collecting up parts for my 4x4 swap :yes: Just scored an external slave bellhousing from a 2wd AX-15 :banana:

 

I want use the 242 transfer case with the AX-15 tranny. I've found from searching that I want a 91+ 23 spline unit. Also, from searching, all 95+ units apparently have different input/output shaft lengths etc.

 

Does this mean that I should grab an AX-15 and 242 from the same years?

 

Also, what front driveshaft would I need? What length rear driveshaft for a short bed with 3" lift? EDIT: I will be using a 8.25 for the rear end. Thanks!

[Oizarod115]

it's practically the same driveshaft length, if anything slightly shorter so since you're lifted i see no reason why you can't run the same shaft you already have.

 

my brother swapped FROM a 242 to a 231 and re-used shafts, my buddy swapped from 2wd to 242 and used a shaft from his old jeep with a 231. so it seems to me they don't change enough to matter really.

 

and the linkage will work for both transfer-cases, just needs adjustment, but since you're swapping it TO 4x4 you'll have to adjust that anyways.

[comanche09]

my brother swapped FROM a 242 to a 231 and re-used shafts, my buddy swapped from 2wd to 242 and used a shaft from his old jeep with a 231. so it seems to me they don't change enough to matter really.

 

Your bro had a 242 in a Comanche? I didn't know they were available from the factory like that. Cool

 

Regarding shafts, I know I have to get the rear shaft cut down going from 2wd to 4wd. I probably should have said I currently have the D35 under the truck.

 

Here's what i've got: No lift, Ba-10/5, D35 2wd

 

Want to go: 3" lift, AX-15, NP 242, 8.25

 

IIRC its -1" when going from D35 to 8.25" 2wd or 4wd aside.

 

I don't have the lift yet, but 3" and 30" or 31" tire is probably max I want to go. The '97 axles I've got have 3.55 gears.

 

So for the front shaft, I should be good with the one from the AX-15 donor?

 

and the linkage will work for both transfer-cases, just needs adjustment, but since you're swapping it TO 4x4 you'll have to adjust that anyways.

 

Thats good to know! I read the biggest PITA with the swap is messing with the linkage.

 

Anyone have input on the model year 242 / AX-15 I need with the correct input/output for the AX-15? :???:

[Pete M]

MJs were never "officially" offered with the 242, but back then if you were willing to pay for it, pretty much anything was possible. i mean, the parts just swap right out and so any dealership could make it happen.

[Oizarod115]

sorry the factory setup 242 was in an XJ but its still pertinent because that means the length of the whole setup didn't change

[comanche09]

sorry the factory setup 242 was in an XJ but its still pertinent because that means the length of the whole setup didn't change

 

Thank you, that takes care of driveshaft lengths

 

What about manual trans AX-15 to 242?

[Pete M]

My 242 bolted right up to my AX-15. make sure you get a 23 spline 242. some of the early ones were 21 spine.

[comanche09]

Awesome! Do you recall what year 242 and AX-15? Thanks Pete :bowdown:

[Pete M]

my ax-15 is the original 90, the 242 I think came from a 99.

[Pete M]

nope, i stand corrected. that particular 242 is a 93.

[comanche09]

Thanks again Pete :chillin:

 

To recap for anyone else searching, when going AX-15 to 242, shaft lengths do not change, transfer linkage requires adjustment, 91+ 23 spline 242 required, and any year AX-15 (all are 23 spline output) trans :cheers:

[Pete M]

the 242 will need a 242 shifter gate.