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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 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 SK2XC, shifter, cable, 231 & 242 transfer cases in Jeep XJ, TJ, LJ
SK2XC

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

Benefits at a Glance:

Our Control Cable

New Process transfer case shifter view
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:

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

Video thumbnail

Related Products


Kit SK3XR, shifter, NP241OR Rubicon transfer case, cable actuation, TJ / LJ
SK3XR
Kit, SK2X shifter assembly for New Process 231, 207, & 242 transfer cases
SK2X
Kit 231MR-1, master rebuild, NP231 transfer case, 1987-1993 versions
Kit 231MR-1, master rebuild, NP231 transfer case, 1987-1993 versions
Kit, slip yoke eliminator, Jeep NP231, ultra-short version
ax15 transmission

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.

Novak shifter comparison

Also See