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The Novak

#SK2X Shifter Assembly

for the

Jeep Models 231, 207 and 242 Transfer Cases

Jeep people know that between the Jeep driver's right hand and the core shifting mechanism at the NP / NVG (New Process and later New Venture Gear) transfer case is an overly complex linkage maze that increases shifting friction, mixes up clean leveraging and even pops the transfer case out of gear in certain situations. 

Considered essential for conversions and modified TJ/LJ or XJ/MJ.

Product & Features

Block_SK2X

For YJ Wranglers and other Jeeps without the necessary interior shifter handle to run a cable shifter, our SK2X shifter replaces everything from the shift plate at the transfer case, right up to the shifter knob in the driver’s hand - in all of these Jeeps. For TJ/LJ, Rubicon, and ZJ models, we recommend the cable shifter version unless you either want or need to eliminate the interior handle. 

Constructed from 3/16” CNC cut and bent steel with keyed index and professional welding on the fabricated tunnel side bracket. Parts are zinc plated for superior corrosion resistance.

Contents

Body mounting bracket with well-nuts for better fit, industrial/aircraft/marine grade cable, transfer case bracket, transfer case shifter arm, necessary hardware, and detailed instructions.

Our goal at Novak was to simplify the shifting mechanism. Initially this was done for our many customers performing engine and transmission conversions where the transmission was moved or replaced rendering the stock linkage points unusable. The solution proved to be much more universal and applies this same superior shifting action to the many running stock powertrain owners unhappy with the existing sloppy shifting action. There are many situations where even the slightest bind on your Jeep causes the complex stock linkage apparatus to pop the transfer case out of its range or mode unexpectedly. Our assembly eliminates the excess play and binding that occurs in the factory linkages, whether caused by wear, modification or simple flex when on the trail or rocks.

Benefits at a Glance:

  • Restore and improve shifting action in Jeeps with suspension and especially body lifts
  • Provide a clean shifting mechanism for conversion transmissions (manual or automatic) being adapted to the Jeep transfer cases
  • Create a crisp shifting feel and a more positive sense control to the driver of the Jeep
  • Eliminate shifter kick-outs and resulting transfer case damage by replacing problematic factory linkages
  • The shift pattern is not reversed from factory when installed, i.e. 2-Hi, front most, 4-Lo, rearmost
  • Fully compatible with modified "2-Low" NP231's
  • Allows a welcomed simplicity due to the design offered by New Process, in that the rotating action of the detent shift plate of the transfer case can be felt and works in a clean, smooth manner once freed from the complex OEM linkages between the driver and the transfer case itself
  • If your transfer case problem is caused by the shifter, this will fix it. If not, it is likely due to internal wear or a broken part. See the links below for rebuild kits and parts
skx2_v2_4l60e_231_side_view

The transmission shown is the GM 4L60-E as adapted to the Jeep NP231. All conversion transmissions using Novak adapters are compatible with the SK2X, including some other adapter brands.

Applications & Compatibility

Jeeps 

The SK2X fits pretty much anything with the listed transfer cases. This kit should work with almost any modification from a full engine/transmission conversion to a tummy tuck with long arms, or just a simple replacement for the poor stock linkage.

Transmissions

As the transfer case bracket attaches to two of the mounting locations for the transfer case itself and is independent of the transmission, it will fit nearly all transmission applications. There is a large amount of adjustability in this shifter in all directions.

Transfer Case

This shifter fits all Jeep 6 bolt pattern NP/NVG (New Process/New Venture Gear) transfer cases including 207, 231, 242, 249 and similar (1988 up) EXCEPT for the 241OR. Most Dodge and the 242AMG transfer cases share the same pattern and should also work with this kit. This kit will not work with Chevy/GM 5 or 6 bolt transfer cases. See the links below for other cable shifter kits to meet your needs.

Related Products

Knobs 

Your shifter will require a knob with 3/8-24 fine thread. We have two basic shapes and multiple engraving patterns. Choose the style that best meets your needs and preferences. Engraving will either be plain or the correct pattern for your particular transfer case.

NOTE: We apologize for the confusion. Our website refuses to remove the option to select a Knob Finish from these products. We are only selling our shifter knobs in a Grey Anodized Finish. Please select any random Knob Finish to satisfy the cart, we will disregard the selection when packaging your purchase.

SK2X Knob, Series I


Boot

If your stock boot is in good shape, it can be re-used. If not, we recommend this one. The deep pleats allow for generous travel and the included stainless steel bezel ring can be attached to the Jeep floor using sheet metal screws. The thru-hole in the boot is rectangular, as opposed to the round Novak cane, but will conform closely to the shape when installed. Heat shrink or a little electrical tape will add girth if necessary in that spot.

Block_SK-BOOT

Tunnel Cover

After a few changes to a Jeep, including powertrain upgrades, lifts, tucks, etc. the original transmission tunnel cover can get to looking pretty haggard. Novak's aluminum cover gives the installer a clean slate, and is undrilled to allow a match to your own particular installation. Read more about it here.

Block_F-7TTC

Installation Requirements

finished_cane_to_dummy_comparison

The bender rod as installed, showing an example configuration.

Normal hand tools along with a torch are usually all that’s required to install the shifter kit. Detailed instructions are included and may be viewed here

Included with the #SK2X kit is an easily bendable, mock-up shift cane, allowing the installer to mold and bend it by hand to the proper shape to configure the installation prior to bending the actual steel shift cane. This dummy rod is inserted into the shifter bracket and then formed in any angle required to place the top of the shifter into the Jeep. Once satisfied with the shape and geometry, the rod is removed and can then be used as a template for the bends in the real rod. If the installer is uncomfortable with the bending process, the dummy rod can be taken to a fabricator as the blueprint. 

Novak's SK2X kit has been designed for a variety of Jeeps and their gearbox options. It was a primary goal to make its installation as simple as possible. However, the installer will require some mechanical ability, an understanding of the principles of leverage, and the skill and facility to bend the shifter cane (typically using heat) to suit the particular Jeep's need.

If you are uncomfortable with such work, we recommend the services of a skilled mechanic.

Also See