What vehicles use a NP246 transfer case?
The NP246 transfer case was primarily used in certain Jeep Grand Cherokee models equipped with Quadra-Trac II, with additional appearances in some Dodge Durango configurations from the late 1990s to early 2000s. In practice, you’ll most often encounter NP246 in mid- to late-1990s Jeep variants and related Chrysler-era SUVs.
This piece outlines which vehicles are documented to have the NP246 transfer case, how to identify it on a vehicle, and considerations for maintenance or replacement. The exact applicability can vary by year, engine, and trim, so it’s best to verify via the case stamping, VIN, or factory manuals before purchasing parts.
What is the NP246 transfer case?
The NP246 is a two- or multi-mode transfer case produced by Chrysler/Jeep’s New Process (NP) lineage. It was used in Quadra-Trac II-equipped vehicles to provide on-demand four-wheel drive and terrain versatility. As with many transfer cases of the era, exact configurations and companion components can vary by model year and engine choice.
Vehicles that used NP246
Below are the models most commonly associated with the NP246 transfer case in public documentation and owner references. Variations by year and trim are possible, so verify with the case itself or official records.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ) — model years 1993–1998
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) — model years 1999–2004
- Dodge Durango — various configurations around 1998–2003
Note: Compatibility can vary by production date, engine, and optional drive-system package. Always cross-check the transfer case ID, stamping, or build documentation to confirm NP246 applicability for a given vehicle.
How to identify NP246 in your vehicle
To confirm you have the NP246, use a systematic check of the transfer case and related documentation. The following steps help verify the model when shopping for parts or planning maintenance.
- Inspect the transfer case itself for a stamped model number, typically on a tag or casting near the case cover; look for “NP246” or a close variant.
- Cross-check the part number on the transfer case with the vehicle’s VIN and service manual to ensure correct matching.
- Compare the VIN plate and build date with the known NP246-equipped configurations for your model year and trim.
- Consult reputable parts catalogs or dealership parts databases for your specific year and option package; some configurations may use a different NP variant.
If you’re unsure after these checks, seek guidance from a qualified technician or a Jeep-Chrysler service specialist who can verify the correct transfer case type for your vehicle.
Additional notes on compatibility and maintenance
Because transfer-case configurations can change within a generation or across markets, it’s prudent to verify with multiple sources (VIN-specific lookup, dealer records, and service manuals) before ordering parts. Regular maintenance—such as fluid checks, proper lubrication, and timely gasket/seal replacement—helps extend the life of any transfer case, including the NP246.
Summary
The NP246 transfer case is most closely associated with Quadra-Trac II-equipped Jeep Grand Cherokees (notably the ZJ and WJ generations) and appears in some late-1990s Dodge Durango variants. Exact applicability depends on production date, engine, and drivetrain configuration. Always verify with the case stamping and official records to ensure correct identification and parts compatibility.
What vehicles use the NP242 transfer case?
The NP242 first appeared in the XJ Cherokee. It was also used in the Wagoneer, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, and the MJ Comanche. This transfer case was also used on select Dodge Dakota and Dodge Durango models.
What is the function of the NP246 transfer case?
It is a full- time, all-wheel-drive transfer case primarily used in various Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs. Known for its robustness and simplicity, the NP 246 provides a seamless transfer of power from the transmission to the front and rear axles, ensuring optimal traction and stability.
What vehicles have the NP246 transfer case?
The most common vehicles this transfer case was used in were the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet K1500 Suburban, Chevrolet K2500 Suburban, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC K1500 Suburban, GMC K2500 Suburban GMC Sierra 1500, GMC Sierra 2500, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon ...
What does a 246 GM transfer case fit?
A GM 246 transfer case is primarily used in 1999-2007 GM full-size trucks and SUVs, including models like the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Avalanche, and GMC Sierra, Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade. The specific fitment depends on the year and transmission, with versions available for the 4L60E (27-spline) and 4L80E (32-spline) transmissions. To ensure the correct replacement, it's essential to verify the spline count and potentially use the tag number from your old transfer case.
Fits the following GM vehicles (1999-2007)
- Chevrolet: Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche
- GMC: Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL
- Cadillac: Escalade
Important fitment details
- Transmission: The 246 is paired with the 4L60E and 4L80E automatic transmissions.
- Spline count: There are different versions based on the spline count of the input shaft.
- 27-spline: Typically used with the 4L60E transmission.
- 32-spline: Typically used with the 4L80E transmission.
- RPO Code: This transfer case often corresponds to the NP8 RPO code.
- Verification: To confirm the correct unit, it is crucial to check the spline count and the assembly tag number, which is located on the rear case half of the transfer case. This is especially important for the model year 2003 and later, which have a different selector shaft design.
