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The Novak

#SK2XZ Cable Shifter Assembly

for the

231 & 242 Transfer Case

in

Jeep ZJ Grand Cherokees

This next generation of cable shifter for the Jeep 231 and 242 transfer cases is based on our #1 selling SK2XC and is exclusively for the ZJ Grand Cherokee Jeeps as produced 1993 - 1998. Even a completely stock Jeep will be happier with this shifter on board. This should be considered essential for conversions and modified ZJ Jeeps.

Product & Features

Block_SK2XZ





This cable shifter assembly replaces everything below the factory shift handle, including the problematic z-bar linkage, tunnel mount bracket, transfer case mount bracket and shifter pivot. The factory shift handle is entirely retained.


Constructed for 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 lifts, crossmember modifications or powertrain / geartrain conversions
    • 

  • Provide a clean shifting mechanism for conversion transmissions (manual or automatic) being adapted to the Jeep transfer cases
    • 

  • Provide a crisp shifting feel and greater sense of 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 maintained from factory when installed, i.e. 2 High, front most and 4 Low, rearmost
    • 

  • Fully compatible with modified "2-Low" NP231's
    • 

  • The factory shift handle is retained
    • 

  • No need to remove the factory console
    • 

  • You don’t have to remove the front yoke or driveshaft
    • 

  • The provided body plate features rubber mounting nuts to seal out the floor for water crossings and account for minor differences in body tooling
    • 

  • 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
    • 

Our Control Cable


We've researched many types and brands of control cable, and we enthusiastically specify and provide our customers with the best we've ever seen. It features:


    

  • Heavy-duty crimped ends
    • 

  • Stainless steel cable
    • 

  • Industrial grade, high-temp outer sheath
    • 

  • Super-low friction, Teflon liner
    • 

  • Tight bend radius featuring no-bind resistance clear down to 5"
    • 

  • All US made
    • 

sk2xc_tub_bracket_view

By using an extremely low friction cable, installation and use is a snap. The kit uses the existing factory shift handle assembly in the floor and console. (TJ version shown. ZJ version similar)




zj_jeep_cable_shifter_installed

The cable and body bracket assembly install quickly, replacing the complicated and non-serviceable factory z-bar linkage.




zj_console_2

Keep your factory shift handle for an OEM look and ease of installation.






Note on Counterfeit Shifter Kits


We've learned of, and have acquired, copied (albeit poorly) shifter kits on the market pretending to the Novak name and design. Its bracketry and especially its cable are of poor quality and we will be unable to warranty failures of such. If you purchased your kit from another retailer and are shorted parts, instructions as many of their customers have had, or have had a cable failure, please pursue any warranty or return with them.


novak_shifter_cable_vs_others
Applications & Compatibility
Jeeps 


This kit fits 1993-1998 ZJ Grand Cherokees. Due to the extremely flexible nature of the Cable and excellent fitment of the brackets, if you have the shifter inside your rig, 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.


Transfer Case


This kit fits all Jeep 6 bolt pattern NP/NVG (New Process/New Venture Gear) transfer case 231, 242 and similar (1988 up) EXCEPT for the 241OR. Dodge and AMG 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.
Installation Requirements
Normal hand tools are usually all that’s required to install the shifter kit. Your skid plate may need to be removed to do the installation. The actual installation of the shifter is extremely simple. Detailed instructions are included.
Also See
Ease of Installation


We've partnered with Matt at BleepinJeep to put together a video on installing one of our SK2XC shifter cables.