The Novak
#SK2XC Cable Shifter Assembly
for the
231 & 242 Transfer Case
in
Jeep TJ Wrangler, XJ Cherokee and MJ Comanche
Novak Conversions is the original creator of the Jeep cable shifter. Decades ago, while studying aircraft-grade control cables, our engineers realized the same technology could revolutionize Jeep transfer case shifting. The result was the SK2XC kit — the first of its kind — providing unmatched precision and reliability for Jeep owners worldwide.
Since then, many have copied the design. But only Novak's SK2XC offers the proven quality, American-made components, and expert support that set the standard from the beginning.
Why Choose the Novak SK2XC?
- The Original: Invented by Novak, trusted by Jeep owners for decades.
- Aircraft-grade cable: Smooth, low-friction operation with zero binding.
- OEM look: Retains your factory shift handle and console fitment.
- Proven durability: Zinc-plated, welded 3/16" steel brackets built for the trail.
- Complete kit: Everything you need for a weekend upgrade.
- US made & supported: Backed by Novak's expertise and customer service.
The Original Jeep Cable Shifter
When body lifts, tummy tucks, and transmission swaps made factory linkages unreliable, Novak solved the problem. The SK2XC eliminates sloppy shifting, kick-outs, and binding — restoring crisp, confident control on- and off-road.
Copycat kits may look similar, but they fall short in material quality, cable smoothness, and support. Trust the original that's been proven on thousands of Jeeps worldwide.
Kit contents:
- Body mounting bracket
- Flex mount well nuts
- Aircraft grade control cable
- Transfer case anchor bracket
- Bearing ends
- Fastening hardware
- Instructions
This NP231 & NP242 cable shifter kit has made itself famous as a weekend best upgrade for your XJ, TJ and LJ transfer case. It provides smoother, more reliable operation than any factory linkage, and is the premier kit on the market.
This 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 of 3/16" steel, professionally welded and black zinc plated for superior corrosion resistance.
Keep your factory shift handle for an OEM look and ease of installation.
Benefits at a Glance:
- Restore and improve shifting action in Jeeps with suspension and especially body lifts and tummy tucks
- 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
- The factory shift handle is retained
- Console removal is not required
- Front yoke and front driveshaft removal is unnecessary
- Factory transfer case actuator / rotator plate (very difficult to remove or replace) is retained
- 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
By using a low friction cable, installation and use is a snap. There is no need to remove the transfer case bellcrank or the factory shift handle assembly in the floor and console.
We specify and provide our customers with the best control cable we've ever seen, featuring:
- 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
Applications & Compatibility
Compatible Jeeps
Fits 1997-2006 TJ & LJ Wranglers as well as 1988+ XJ Cherokees and MJ Comanche Jeeps. Due to the 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.
Compatible 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. Relevant Novak NP / NVG transfer case adapters are all constructed to accept this shifter.
Compatible Transfer Cases
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 which requires our SK3XR. Dodge and AMG transfer cases share the same pattern and are reported to work with this kit. This kit will not work with Chevy/GM 5 or 6 bolt transfer cases. Jeep NP207 transfer cases are not compatible but this kit works well for them.
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.
Matt at BleepinJeep made this terrific video, installing our #SK2XC shifter (#SK2XR install, similar).
Video Instructions
Related Products
Summary
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.
Note on Counterfeit Shifter Kits
Over the years, our SK2XC layout has been imitated. While some kits may resemble ours, Novak created the original Jeep cable shifter and continues to build it with US-made, aircraft-grade cable and welded 3/16" brackets. That combination is what delivers the smooth, bind-free shifting and long service life people expect from a Novak part.
If you purchased a similar kit elsewhere and received incomplete parts or experienced early cable failure, please contact that seller for support. When you choose Novak, you get the original design, premium components, complete instructions, and our technical help if you need it.
Also See
- The Novak #SK3XR Shifter Assembly for the Jeep NP 241OR RockTrac Transfer Case
- The Novak Direct Linkage #SK2X Shifter Assembly for the Jeep New Process / New Venture Models 231, 207 and 242 Transfer Cases
- The Novak Guide to the New Process / New Venture Gear 231 Transfer Case
- Parts for the New Process 231 Transfer Case
- The Novak Guide to the New Process / New Venture Gear 242 Transfer Case
- Parts for the New Process 242 Transfer Case
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