Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ 4x4 transfer case swap 249 242 231

The 249 transfer case swap is a popular modification for Jeep Grand Cherokees. Here I take you through the entire process!

This is a popular modification to Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ to eliminate the viscous coupler. Many people remove the 249 transfer case and replace them with a 242 or 231 transfer case. I take you through the first step to the finished product of a complete transfer case swap.

This transfer case swap to the 242 gives you the option of 2 wheel drive, 4 wheel drive part time, 4 wheel drive full time, and 4 low.

If you would like a closer look at each step of the transfer case swap, check out my full videos of each step of the process!

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[chadmathers]

Dude, you rock for making these videos. This is my next project as soon as I can get my hands on a 242 case.

[Alpha-msnj]

This video may be 6 years old now but it is still very relevant. I'm resurrecting an old 1994 ZJ 5.2 I purchased for $300. It has the 249 TC and no frnt driveshaft and I'm not bothering to get one until I can score a 242 replacement. Thank you for this video and showing the steps needed to RR the TC and what needs to be done. Super informative, thanks for sharing your expertise and no how much appreciated.

[TrailRecon]

Great project from start to end Professor!

[PJDoremus]

My jeep has a 242, but I learned a lot from the video. Thanks!

[badnative]

Just want to thank you with the videos. My Father bought a (same jeep zj) 95 Grand Cherokee Limited with the Quadra Trac. About all the same was wrong with this one from the cooler lines to bad viscous coupler. And was going to a 242. And was in the middle of all the repairs came across your channel and loved all the info. Just finishing up with it now.

[zxtenn]

I have a 96 with the 5.2 and formerly had a 249 with the same problem, I put in a 247 so its now a progressive and not full time, it already has limited slip and I have never gotten stuck. I lived in NY and went to TRANSFER CASES UNLIMITED, he is a guru and said 247 is fine and keeps the front end parts unloaded but I do agree the 242 is an upgrade, I paid 1050.00 installed and it has been in there 7 years with no problems, I just change the fluid 2X a year, spring and fall

[bellajohnson]

Nice job on the Jeep Grand Cherokee! Your hard work and dedication really paid Awesome! 👏🏻👍😆😃😀🤗

[davidpepiton]

very nice video! I've had a NP242 sitting in my garage for over a year just need the input swapped from the NP249 but since I can't seem to get two days off in a row or I work OT it just hasn't happened. plus I want to clock the transfer case at the same time.

[gridironlion]

It is great to see this transfer all in one video. Great work. I had different nicknames for the "Muscle and Professor" but I will keep those to myself

[MikeBrownOhio]

looks like a good option....Have a great day and Merry Christmas...

[SamuelMcCunemusic]

Thanks for sharing! i just pulled a 242 out of a ZJ at the junk yard same model year as my ZJ so hopefully i don't have to swap input shafts but if i do this will be a great resource!

[BoazAvrahami]

The red and black plug under the VIC working for my 98 ZG(G).
Thanks a LOT guys!!!

[bobbyganja]

Would a shop know how to do the swab? Or can I bring my jeep to you?

[mattswanson]

Great series! Now I'm ready to do a swap myself... But I think I'd prefer to just find a GC with a 242 to begin with! Thanks!

[DJCryptoStix]

how can i tell if my transfer case is bad or the transmission? I wanna do a swap but idk what out of the 2 is bad? any help? thanks jeepsolid!

[njseashorechas]

Thanks! Great videos! You inspired me to to the 249 to 242 swap! Not hard at all if you take your time and use the proper tools! I found a used 242 case for $100 ! I had to drive 6 hours round trip but worth it. Cheaper then trying to repair the 249 viscous coupler that cost $400. new!

[joebalser]

the #6 bolt is a lot easier to reach if you lower the trans a bit

[stayve.]

Process is the same for a 249 to 231 swap right? Swap input shafts if it’s not matching up. Anything else need swapped over?

[mitreswell]

Great informative stuff, but where were the viscous coupling and the differential? I was looking forward to seeing them.

[chadmathers]

Do you have a video on changing the front driveshaft rzeppa to a cardan joint? I woulD VERY much appreciate it. I can't seem to find one anywhere on youtube...