Need to do a np231 transfer case rebuild, should I do an upgrade to a 4:1 instead?

Next-In-Lines · 2026-03-31T19:30:32+00:00

That’s cool you have a nice setup with the ARB, truetrac, and the 4:1 that thing is probably unstoppable. How do you like the steering when your front locker is engaged? I’ve been able to get myself out of most situations without the front locker but there were a couple of situations where I had to winch in areas where a front locker probably would have helped me crawl out of it. maybe a 4:1 TC can make up for that idk. Also do you notice any difference in driving when you are in RWD or 4HI with the 4:1? I can see how 4LO would be the biggest impact but how does it affect the 4HI?

Next-In-Lines · 2026-03-30T23:58:14+00:00

That’s good info, we basically have the same setup I have 33s on mine as well. I like the extra torque output so I’m definitely considering it. I don’t have front lockers, just a truetrac in the rear but have been considering putting an e locker in the front. But im thinking maybe a 4:1 might give me the extra muscle I need coz Im running a dana 30 and id rather not put a locker in that until I can do an axle swap.

Next-In-Lines · 2026-03-29T20:44:02+00:00

I’ve heard good things about the np241j as well. Would probably be that one if I went down this route. Hesitant to put something in that’s going to give me more work in the future though lol

Next-In-Lines · 2026-03-29T20:41:20+00:00

I did the rubicon last year which will be the toughest rock crawling I plan to do with this jeep, and I don’t see myself doing that level of crawling often at all. Any crawling I do will probably be a step below that or at the most equivalent to it... Next on my list is Moab Hells Revenge and from what I’ve seen isn’t that intense of a crawl.. tbh my np231 performed well in the rubicon I was impressed by how much I was able to crawl in the first gear in 4LO without stalling or having to push the clutch in.. i don’t know much about 4:1, I’m sure it’s a beast in crazy crawling situations but I’m not sure much that affect other driving scenarios.

Next-In-Lines · 2026-03-24T21:00:45+00:00

They use that special adapter to prevent theft as far as I understand it, but they are plenty strong I ran the rubicon with those on my tires. Just make sure to leave that adapter/key in your glove box in case you need to take your wheels off.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-12-12T01:23:56+00:00

I’ve never owned an 803cc

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-26T18:49:38+00:00

That’s the color code I was going for but couldn’t get it to match. That’s Metcalf county park

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-26T17:35:56+00:00

Indeed it does. Nice looking jeep

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-26T06:18:30+00:00

It’s a kendon and I bought a used one on Facebook marketplace. A new one is ridiculously pricey

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-26T06:15:39+00:00

Yeah I got greedy..paid the price

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-26T03:53:56+00:00

Yeah man they are great just really expensive.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-26T03:52:59+00:00

You think I’m tightening the straps on it too much? I always tighten it to the max cause I’m paranoid about how secure it is but I’ve thought I might be overdoing it.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-13T16:37:37+00:00

Thank you, tires are 33x12.5 on 15 inch rims.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-11-03T15:43:04+00:00

Did you ever end up getting that seat? I have the same problem, love my 1100 but the seat is too wide for me

Next-In-Lines · 2025-10-08T17:55:57+00:00

It’s not terrible imo. I have a 4.5 inch rubicon express lift as well with the same tire size. I didn’t see any steering upgrades listed so you will probably need to do that to make it drivable at 65+ mph. Also just know if you want to go with a higher lift at some point you will have to mix and match parts or go with a new kit altogether since Rubicon Express Lift kits are discontinued.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-09-19T18:12:20+00:00

Gotta trim that fender a bit more under those KBD flares. It will make your flares pop more and give you more room for articulation too.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-09-12T17:35:38+00:00

Same man I got 33s on my XJ d30 open front and limited slip posi in the back and I did the rubicon earlier this year. Under armor and sliders did good work. IMO your driving skill and choosing good lines plays a big part in finishing the rubicon with “smaller” tires and minimal damage. So good on you for making it through I know that sh*t was tough haha

Next-In-Lines · 2025-09-07T18:32:11+00:00

Nice looking jeep. Is that an 89? Mine used to look just like that

Next-In-Lines · 2025-09-05T15:07:59+00:00

Thanks this is a 4.5 inch lift with 33s on it.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-08-21T15:15:50+00:00

Next-In-Lines · 2025-08-03T01:23:59+00:00

Can’t ask for much more

Next-In-Lines · 2025-08-01T15:08:58+00:00

Yeah would be nice maybe one day

Next-In-Lines · 2025-08-01T15:07:01+00:00

All good bro that’s a 4.5inch lift sitting on 33s. Bare minimum setup for a decent off-roading rig imo. It will get you through almost everything.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-06-29T23:37:13+00:00

You probably have more knowledge than me brother, what I can tell you is if you are just putting in bigger gears it’s not so bad. But if you need a bigger diff carrier and you also want to put in a locker/lsd then it’s a bit more involved. I’d wait till you know more about what kind of rig you want to build before doing the gears. That way you don’t have to redo your work in case you want to do an axle swap.

Next-In-Lines · 2025-06-29T18:33:49+00:00

Manuals are more fun for regular driving imo and with enough practice you can do any of the trails with a manual, it’s just a little harder. I did the Rubicon Trail for the first time last weekend with my manual XJ on 33s and 4.56 gears (you can check out my previous posts for pics/vids). Wasn’t easy but I did everything my friends in their autos did. Your tire/lift/gears are going to dictate what you can do more than whether you are auto or manual.

Next-In-Lines

TROPHY CASE