[nicexj]

Hey guys. So my t case has now bit the dust. I live in Denver and so as you probably know, the blizzard played its toll on us. I got stuck in a snow bank for a bit. And by the time I made it out, 4 high was no longer working. 4 low works though. So I have a few questions, and I thought you guys could help.

When I was in the snow bank, I was in 4 low. And by the end I actually put it into 2 wheel and got out. Can you think of a reason that 4 hi would go out if it wasn't even engaged during this?

When I am in 4 high now, I here something spinning freely like something is broken. But what would break that is only engaged in 4 high.

Do you guys think there is any hope of fixing it. And if not, can I pick up a donor Jeep and pull its t case? I think I need the NP231 which was on 87-01 XJ. Does that sound right.

Thanks for any help on this. I need to figure something out and fast. I was supposed to start my exo cage for Easter Jeep Safari about now, but I guess I will just be getting the damn thing running instead.

[sharpie]

make sure it's the 231. It will have a 2Hi-4Hi-N-4Lo configuration. If so, and you hear it spinning freely, it could be a number of things. First, the shift rail may be offset to where it should be. Second, because the 231 is chain driven on gears, you may have ground some of the teeth off of the 4Hi gear. Third, it could be the shift mechanism, it's a gear with three notches in it; that could be offset as well. I would check those first. Oh, but if you are still in Denver, take it to a shop, because checking to see what's wrong is a good 2 day process by yourself, let alone fixing it, plus it'll be effing cold climbing under there with snow on the ground.

[Boomhauer]

In deep snow you should have been in 4low. Once your atf hits a certain temp it breaks down FAST. Drain your t-case for kicks and refill with fresh fluid, and do your tanny while your at it. See if this helps, it may, or may not but it's a start.
Also if you can get it indoors to thaw out for a while is a good move too.
If you need a new 231, get one from a 96+. HTH