chain JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2003 WJ / 2.G Repair Manual

OPERATION
The input gear is splined to the transmission out-
put shaft. It drives the mainshaft through the plan-
etary gear and range hub. The front output shaft is
operated by a drive chain that connects the shaft to a
drive sprocket on the mainshaft. The drive sprocket
is engaged/disengaged by the mode fork, which oper-
ates the mode sleeve and hub. The sleeve and hub
are not equipped with a synchro mechanism for shift-
ing.
OPERATING RANGES
NV242 operating ranges are 2WD (2-wheel drive),
4x4 part-time, 4x4 full time, and 4 Lo.
The 2WD and 4x4 full time ranges can be used at
any time and on any road surface.
The 4x4 part-time and 4 Lo ranges are for off road
use only. The only time these ranges can be used on
hard surface roads, is when the surface is covered
with snow and ice.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TRANSFER CASE - NV242
DIAGNOSIS CHART
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
Transfer case difficult to shift or will
not shift into desired range.1) Transfer case shift linkage
binding.1) Repair or replace linkage as
necessary.
2) Insufficient or incorrect lubricant. 2) Drain and refill transfer case with
the correct type and quantity of
lubricant.
3) Internal transfer case
components binding, worn, or
damaged.3) Repair or replace components as
necessary.
Transfer case noisy in all drive
modes.1) Insufficient or incorrect lubricant. 1) Drain and refill transfer case with
the correct type and quantity of
lubricant.
Lubricant leaking from transfer case
seals or vent.1) Transfer case overfilled. 1) Drain lubricant to the correct
level.
2) Transfer case vent closed or
restricted.2) Clean or replace vent as
necessary.
3) Transfer case seals damaged or
installed incorrectly.3) Replace suspect seal.
Transfer case will not shift through
4X4 part time range (light remains
on)1) Incomplete shift due to drivetrain
torque load.1) Momentarily release the
accelerator pedal to complete the
shift.
2) Incorrect tire pressure. 2) Correct tire pressure as
necessary.
3) Excessive Tire wear. 3) Correct tire condition as
necessary.
4) Excessive vehicle loading. 4) Correct as necessary.
Fig. 2 Fill/Drain Plug And I.D. Tag Locations
1 - I.D. TAG
2 - FILL PLUG
3 - DRAIN PLUG
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV242 21 - 281
TRANSFER CASE - NV242 (Continued)

REMOVAL
(1) Shift transfer case into NEUTRAL.
(2) Raise vehicle.
(3) Remove transfer case drain plug and drain
transfer case lubricant.
(4) Mark front and rear propeller shaft yokes for
alignment reference.
(5) Support transmission with jack stand.
(6) Remove rear crossmember and skid plate, if
equipped (Fig. 3).
(7) Disconnect front/rear propeller shafts at trans-
fer case. (Refer to 3 - DIFFERENTIAL & DRIV-
ELINE/PROPELLER SHAFT/PROPELLER SHAFT -
REMOVAL)
(8) Disconnect transfer case cable from range
lever.
(9) Disconnect transfer case vent hose (Fig. 4) and
transfer case position sensor.
(10) Support transfer case with transmission jack.
(11) Secure transfer case to jack with chains.
(12) Remove nuts attaching transfer case to trans-
mission.(13) Pull transfer case and jack rearward to disen-
gage transfer case.
(14) Remove transfer case from under vehicle.
DISASSEMBLY
REAR RETAINER - NV242LD
(1) Remove output shaft boot. Spread band clamp
that secures boot on slinger with a suitable awl.
Then slide boot off shaft (Fig. 5).
Fig. 3 Crossmember Removal
1 - CROSSMEMBER
2 - REAR TRANSMISSION MOUNT
Fig. 4 Transfer Case Mounting
1 - NV242 TRANSFER CASE
Fig. 5 Output Boot - Typical
1 - SLINGER
2 - BOOT
3-AWL
4 - TRANSFER CASE
21 - 282 TRANSFER CASE - NV242WJ
TRANSFER CASE - NV242 (Continued)

FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT AND DRIVE CHAIN
(1) Remove drive sprocket snap-ring (Fig. 23).
(2) Remove drive sprocket and chain (Fig. 24).
(3) Remove front output shaft (Fig. 25).
SHIFT FORKS AND MAINSHAFT
(1) Remove shift detent plug, spring and pin (Fig.
26).
Fig. 23 Drive Sprocket Snap-Ring Removal
1 - DRIVE SPROCKET
2 - DRIVE SPROCKET SNAP-RING
Fig. 24 Drive Sprocket And Chain Removal
1 - DRIVE SPROCKET
2 - DRIVE CHAIN
Fig. 25 Removing Front Output Shaft
1 - FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT
Fig. 26 Detent Component Removal
1 - PLUNGER
2 - O-RING
3 - PLUG
4 - SPRING
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV242 21 - 287
TRANSFER CASE - NV242 (Continued)

REAR OUTPUT SHAFT/YOKE/DRIVE CHAIN
Check condition of the seal contact surfaces of the
yoke slinger (Fig. 49). This surface must be clean and
smooth to ensure proper seal life. Replace the yoke
nut and seal washer as neither part should be
reused.
Inspect the shaft threads, sprocket teeth, and bear-
ing surfaces. Minor nicks on the teeth can be
smoothed with an oilstone. Use 320-400 grit emery to
smooth minor scratches on the shaft bearing sur-
faces. Rough threads on the shaft can be chased if
necessary. Replace the shaft if the threads are dam-
aged, bearing surfaces are scored, or if any sprocket
teeth are cracked or broken.
Examine the drive chain and shaft bearings.
Replace the chain and both sprockets if the chain is
stretched, distorted, or if any of the links bind.
Replace the bearings if rough, or noisy.
LOW RANGE ANNULUS GEAR
Inspect annulus gear condition carefully. The gear
is only serviced as part of the front case. If the gear
is damaged, it will be necessary to replace the gear
and front case as an assembly. Do not attempt to
remove the gear (Fig. 50)
FRONT-REAR CASES AND FRONT RETAINER
Inspect the cases and retainer for wear and dam-
age. Clean the sealing surfaces with a scraper and
3M all purpose cleaner. This will ensure proper
sealer adhesion at assembly. Replace the input
retainer seal; do not reuse it.Check case condition. If leaks were a problem, look
for gouges and severe scoring of case sealing sur-
faces. Also make sure the front case mounting studs
are in good condition.
Check the front case mounting studs and vent
tube. The tube can be secured with LoctiteŸ 271 or
680 if loose. The stud threads can be cleaned up with
a die if necessary. Also check condition of the fill/
drain plug threads in the rear case. The threads can
be repaired with a thread chaser or tap if necessary.
Or the threads can be repaired with HelicoilŸ stain-
less steel inserts if required.
OIL PUMP/OIL PICKUP
Examine the oil pump pickup parts. Replace the
pump if any part appears to be worn or damaged. Do
not disassemble the pump as individual parts are not
available. The pump is only available as a complete
assembly. The pickup screen, hose, and tube are the
only serviceable parts and are available separately.
ASSEMBLY
Lubricate transfer case components with automatic
transmission fluid or petroleum jelly (where indi-
cated) during assembly.
CAUTION: The bearing bores in various transfer
case components contain oil feed holes. Make sure
replacement bearings do not block the holes.
Fig. 49 Seal Contact Surface Of Yoke Slinger
1 - FRONT SLINGER (PART OF YOKE)
2 - SEAL CONTACT SURFACE MUST BE CLEAN AND SMOOTH
Fig. 50 Low Range Annulus Gear
1 - FRONT CASE
2 - LOW RANGE ANNULUS GEAR
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV242 21 - 295
TRANSFER CASE - NV242 (Continued)

FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT AND DRIVE CHAIN
(1) Install front output shaft (Fig. 84).
(2) Install drive chain (Fig. 84). Engage chain with
front output shaft sprocket teeth.
(3) Install drive sprocket (Fig. 84). Engage drive
sprocket teeth with chain. Then engage sprocket
splines with mainshaft splines.
(4) Install drive sprocket snap-ring (Fig. 85).
OIL PUMP AND REAR CASE
(1) Insert oil pickup tube in oil pump and attach
oil screen and connector hose to pickup tube. Then
install assembled pump, tube and screen in rear case
(Fig. 86). Be sure screen is seated in case slot as
shown.
(2) Install magnet in front case pocket (Fig. 87).
(3) Apply 3 mm (1/8 in.) wide bead of Mopartgas-
ket maker or silicone adhesive sealer to seal surface
of front case.
(4) Align and install rear case on front case. Be
sure case locating dowels are in place and that main-
shaft splines are engaged in oil pump inner gear.
(5) Install and tighten front case-to-rear case bolts
to 41 N´m (30 ft. lbs.) torque.Be sure to install a
washer under each bolt used at case dowel
locations.
Fig. 84 Drive Chain And Sprocket Installation
1 - DRIVE SPROCKET
2 - DRIVE CHAIN
Fig. 85 Drive Sprocket Snap-Ring Installation
1 - DRIVE SPROCKET
2 - DRIVE SPROCKET SNAP-RING
Fig. 86 Oil Screen And Pickup Tube Installation
1 - OIL PUMP
2 - OIL SCREEN
3 - CONNECTOR
4 - PICKUP TUBE
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV242 21 - 305
TRANSFER CASE - NV242 (Continued)

NV242HD REAR RETAINER
(1) Apply bead of MopartSealer, or LoctiteŸ
Ultra Gray, to mating surface of rear retainer. Sealer
bead should be a maximum of 3/16 in.
(2) Install rear retainer on rear case. Tighten
retainer bolts to 20-27 N´m (15-20 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install new output shaft bearing snap-ring
(Fig. 91). Lift mainshaft slightly to seat snap-ring in
shaft groove, if necessary.
(4) Apply 3 mm (1/8 in.) wide bead of Mopartgas-
ket maker or silicone adhesive sealer to mounting
surface of extension housing. Allow sealer to set-up
slightly before proceeding.(5) Install extension housing on rear retainer.
(6) Install extension housing bolts and tighten to
35-46 N´m (26-34 ft. lbs.).
COMPANION FLANGE
(1) Lubricate companion flange hub with transmis-
sion fluid and install flange on front shaft.
(2) Install new seal washer on front shaft.
(3) Install flange on front shaft and tighten nut to
122-176 N´m (90-130 ft. lbs.).
INSTALLATION
(1) Mount transfer case on a transmission jack.
(2) Secure transfer case to jack with chains.
(3) Position transfer case under vehicle.
(4) Align transfer case and transmission shafts
and install transfer case on transmission.
(5) Install and tighten transfer case attaching nuts
to 35 N´m (26 ft. lbs.) torque (Fig. 4).
(6) Align and connect propeller shafts. (Refer to 3 -
DIFFERENTIAL & DRIVELINE/PROPELLER
SHAFT/PROPELLER SHAFT - INSTALLATION)
(7) Fill transfer case with correct fluid. Check
transmission fluid level. Correct as necessary.
(8) Install rear crossmember and skid plate, if
equipped. Tighten crossmember bolts to 41 N´m (30
ft. lbs.) torque.
(9) Remove transmission jack and support stand.
(10) Connect shift rod to transfer case range lever.
(11) Connect transfer case vent hose and transfer
case position sensor.
(12) Adjust transfer case shift cable.
(13) Lower vehicle and verify transfer case shift
operation.
Fig. 91 Install Output Bearing Snap-ring
1 - REAR RETAINER
2 - SNAP-RING
3 - REAR BEARING
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV242 21 - 307
TRANSFER CASE - NV242 (Continued)

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
NOISY INÐOR JUMPS OUT OF
4WD LOW RANGE1. Transfer case not completely
engaged in 4WD LOW (possibly
from shift to 4L while rolling)1. Stop vehicle, shift transfer case
to neutral, then shift back to 4WD
LOW
2. Shift linkage loose, binding, or is
misadjusted2. Tighten, lubricate, or repair
linkage as necessary. Adjust linkage
if necessary
3. Range fork cracked, inserts
worn, or fork is binding on shift rail3. Disassemble unit and repair as
necessary
4. Annulus gear or lockplate worn
or damaged4. Disassemble unit and repair as
necessary
LUBRICANT LEAKING FROM
OUTPUT SHAFT SEALS OR FROM
VENT1. Transfer case over filled 1. Drain to correct level
2. Vent closed or restricted 2. Clear or replace vent if necessary
3. Output shaft seals damaged or
installed correctly3. Replace seals. Be sure seal lip
faces interior of case when installed.
Also be sure yoke seal surfaces are
not scored or nicked. Remove
scores and nicks with fine
sandpaper or replace yoke(s) if
necessary.
REMOVAL
(1) Shift transfer case into NEUTRAL.
(2) Raise vehicle.
(3) Remove transfer case drain plug and drain
transfer case lubricant.
(4) Mark front and rear propeller shaft yokes for
alignment reference.
(5) Support transmission with jack stand.
(6) Remove rear crossmember and skid plate, if
equipped (Fig. 4).
(7) Disconnect front propeller shaft from transfer
case at companion flange. Remove rear propeller
shaft from vehicle. (Refer to 3 - DIFFERENTIAL &
DRIVELINE/PROPELLER SHAFT/PROPELLER
SHAFT - REMOVAL)
CAUTION: Do not allow propshafts to hang at
attached end. Damage to joint can result.
(8) Disconnect transfer case cable from range
lever.
(9) Disconnect transfer case vent hose (Fig. 5).
(10) Support transfer case with transmission jack.
(11) Secure transfer case to jack with chains.
(12) Remove nuts attaching transfer case to trans-
mission.
(13) Pull transfer case and jack rearward to disen-
gage transfer case (Fig. 5).
(14) Remove transfer case from under vehicle.
DISASSEMBLY
Position transfer case on shallow drain pan.
Remove drain plug and drain lubricant remaining in
case.
Fig. 4 Crossmember Removal
1 - CROSSMEMBER
2 - REAR TRANSMISSION MOUNT
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV247 21 - 317
TRANSFER CASE - NV247 (Continued)

FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT AND DRIVE CHAIN
(1) Remove oil pickup tube from rear case (Fig.
17).
(2) Remove drive gear snap-ring (Fig. 18).
(3) Disengage drive gear (Fig. 18). Pry gear
upward and off mainshaft as shown.
(4) Remove front output shaft, drive chain and
drive gear as assembly (Fig. 18).
(5) Remove output shaft drive gear snap ring.
(6) Remove output shaft drive gear from output
shaft.
SHIFT FORKS AND MAINSHAFT
(1) Remove detent plug, O-ring, detent spring and
detent plunger (Fig. 19).
(2) Remove shift rail from shift fork and transfer
case housing.
(3) Rotate range shift fork until it disengages from
shift sector.
(4) Remove mainshaft and shift fork from input
gear pilot bearing.
NOTE: Loose needle bearings are used to support
the drive sprocket hub on the mainshaft. Do not lift
mainshaft by drive sprocket hub or needle bearings
will become dislodged.
(5) Wrap rag around mainshaft underneath drive
sprocket hub and remove drive sprocket hub from
mainshaft. Be sure to retrieve all the drive sprocket
hub needle bearings.
(6) Remove snap ring holding clutch sleeve onto
mainshaft.
Fig. 17 Oil Pickup Tube Removal
1 - OIL PICKUP TUBE
Fig. 18 Front Output Shaft, Drive Gear And Chain
Removal
1 - REAR HOUSING
2 - OUTPUT SHAFT AND SPROCKET
3 - MAINSHAFT SPROCKET
4 - SNAP-RING
5 - DRIVE CHAIN
Fig. 19 Detent Plug, Spring And Plunger Removal
1 - DETENT PLUG
2 - DETENT SPRING
3 - DETENT PLUNGER
4 - PLUG O-RING
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV247 21 - 321
TRANSFER CASE - NV247 (Continued)

(6) Install range shift fork to range clutch sleeve.
Install mainshaft/range shift fork assembly into
transfer case and input planetary assembly. Rotate
fork until it engages with slot in shift sector.
(7) Install shift rail to shift range fork and trans-
fer case housing.
(8) Rotate shift sector to NEUTRAL position.
(9) Install new O-ring on detent plug (Fig. 52).
(10) Lubricate detent plunger with transfer case
lubricant or light coat of petroleum jelly.
(11) Install detent plunger, spring and plug (Fig.
52).
(12)
Verify that plunger is properly engaged in sector.
FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT AND DRIVE CHAIN
(1) Lubricate front output shaft-sprocket assembly,
drive chain and drive sprocket with transfer case
lubricant.
(2) Assemble drive chain, drive sprocket and front
output shaft (Fig. 53).
(3) Start drive sprocket on mainshaft.
(4) Guide front shaft into bearing and drive
sprocket onto mainshaft drive gear (Fig. 53).
(5) Install drive sprocket snap-ring (Fig. 54).
Fig. 51 Range Clutch Sleeve, Blockout Spring,
Locking Clutch and Spring
1 - LOCKING CLUTCH SPRING
2 - BLOCKOUT SPRING
3 - SNAP-RING
4 - RANGE CLUTCH SLEEVE
5 - LOCKING CLUTCH
6 - DRIVE SPROCKET HUB
Fig. 52 Shift Detent Components
1 - DETENT PLUG
2 - DETENT SPRING
3 - DETENT PLUNGER
4 - PLUG O-RING
Fig. 53 Installing Drive Chain, Front Output Shaft
And Drive Sprocket
1 - FRONT OUTPUT SHAFT
2 - DRIVE CHAIN
3 - MAINSHAFT
4 - DRIVE GEAR
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV247 21 - 331
TRANSFER CASE - NV247 (Continued)

(7) Apply 3 mm (1/8 in.) wide bead of Mopartgas-
ket maker or silicone adhesive sealer to mounting
surface of rear retainer. Allow sealer to set-up
slightly before proceeding.
(8) Slide rear retainer onto mainshaft (Fig. 67).
(9) Spread rear bearing locating ring and slide
rear retainer into place on rear case (Fig. 68).
(10) Install and tighten rear retainer bolts to 27-34
N´m (20-25 ft. lbs.).
(11) Install rubber access plug (Fig. 69).
FINAL ASSEMBLY
(1) Install drain plug. Tighten plug to 41-54 N´m
(30-40 ft. lbs.) torque.(2) Level transfer case and fill it with Mopart
Transfer Case Lubricant. Correct fill level is to bot-
tom edge of fill plug hole.
(3) Install and tighten fill plug to 41-54 N´m
(30-40 ft. lbs.) torque.
INSTALLATION
(1) Mount transfer case on a transmission jack.
(2) Secure transfer case to jack with chains.
(3) Position transfer case under vehicle.
(4) Align transfer case and transmission shafts
and install transfer case on transmission.
(5) Install and tighten transfer case attaching nuts
to 35 N´m (26 ft. lbs.) torque (Fig. 70).Fig. 67 Rear Retainer Installation
1 - REAR CASE
2 - REAR RETAINER
Fig. 68 Engaging Rear Bearing Locating Ring
1 - REAR RETAINER
2 - PARALLEL JAW SNAP-RING PLIERS
Fig. 69 Installing Rubber Access Plug
1 - PLUG
Fig. 70 Install Transfer Case
1 - NV247 TRANSFER CASE
WJTRANSFER CASE - NV247 21 - 335
TRANSFER CASE - NV247 (Continued)