The Novak Guide to the

New Process / NVG 241OR RockTrac Transfer Case

np241or_transfer_caseIn 2003, and in response to the trends of off-roading, Jeep introduced the NP 241OR RockTrac transfer case in the upgraded Rubicon package in the TJ Wrangler Jeep.

The increased strength and capability of the NVG 241OR, make it desirable to retain in nearly every conversion situation.

The 241OR, to date, is only found in Jeep vehicles.

Features

The 26 male / external spline version of the RockTrac transfer case.

The 241OR has a driver's side front output and centerline rear output. The 241OR features two ran ges; a low range gear that is an impressive 4.0-to-1 (the lowest of all the Jeep transfer cases) and a direct-drive in high range. It features three modes; two-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive and neutral - for a factory combination of 2H, 4H, N, 4L. Aftermarket modifications allow for the addition of a 2 Low position.

2003-2006 RockTracs feature a three-wire, digital square wave Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) on the short tailhousing assembly, in the vein of modern automotive systems. 2007-current RockTracs do not feature a VSS, as speed sensing is relegated to the ABS computer, which in turn relays speed information to the ECM.

The design of the 241OR is very good. They were engineered for durability and simplicity of build - both an advantage to the OEM assemblers as well as individuals servicing them. The NP241OR transfer case has turned out to surprise us in its strength, gearing, upgradeability and servicability. Most of our customers choose to retain their Jeep 241OR with their conversions. It is very common for them to offer good service behind some of the strongest engines and transmissions.

The 241OR weighs about 90 lbs.

Identification

This transfer case is identified by its red and silver tag on the rear of the case. They are also easily identified by appearance. They feature a six-bolt front face.

Though similar in nomenclature, size and configuration to the NP241 transfer cases, this unit has its own case and many unique internal parts. It has a fixed yoke output assembly with an integral electronic speed sensor. The transfer case halves are unique in the overlap of the input assembly required by the larger planetary gears, and the rear half is engineered with generous ribs to handle the increased torque.

Input Gears and Compatibility

The NP241OR input gear is a different animal than the other New Process series of chain drive transfer cases of the same era. It requires a smaller sun gear feature to achieve its 4:1 reduction, and as you would guess, they are in no way compatible nor interchangeable.

The 241OR transfer case features the following input spline configuration:

  • 23 spline, short (1-1/8" stickout)
  • 23 spline, flush (no stickout)
    • This is a rare version that appeared around 2012 - 2015 and only with automatics, and will require special adaptation considerations, if possible at all. Mopar documentation is weak on this and little is known about them at this writing
  • 21 spline, short
    • This is so rare as to seem like an anomaly, but was found in a June 2004 manufacture date Jeep. We speculate it may have been a limited option with a 2.4L Mopar engine and NV1500 five-speed
  • 26 spline male
    • This is more common and found behind the NAG automatic transmission. Adaptation is possible with special adapter shafts. Inquire
241OR 23 spline input

Transmission Compatibility & Adaptability

The Jeep 241OR is found behind these factory transmissions:

Manuals, native

  • NV3550, 2000-2004
  • NSG370
  • NV1500 (speculated, not yet confirmed)

Automatics, native

  • 46RFE
  • NAG / WA580

Adaptation to better transmissions is often less costly than rebuilding the weaker Jeep gearboxes and provides serious performance and strength upgrades. The 241OR adapts very well to several popular transmissions, including:

Manuals, upgrades

Adapting the 241OR to the SM-420 transmission

Adapting the 241OR to the SM-465 transmission Adapting the 241OR to the T-18 transmission Adapting the 241OR to the NP-435 transmission
SM420 SM465 T18 NP435


Automatics, upgrades

text here
Adapting the 241OR to the TH-350 transmission Adapting the 241OR to the TH-400 transmission Adapting the 241OR to the 700R-4 transmission Adapting the 241OR to the 4L60-E transmission
TH350 TH400 TH700R4 / Early 4L60-E Later 4L60-E

Shifters

Factory linkages for the 241OR are problematic and hard to work with. These convoluted linkage systems can be entirely replaced with Novak kit #SK3XR, our smooth shifting, universal shifter. This shifter assembly also simplifies the upgrade to the above transmissions.

Conclusion

The 241OR was welcomed by Jeep enthusiasts. It appears to not be letting them down.