Seeking Knowledge on Rubicon Transfer Case Swap into Sport

Has anyone done a swap for a 1997-02 np231 to a 2003-06 Rubicon transfer case? I want to do the swap in order to raise my crawl ratio. I am gathering information so I can acquire all the parts I will need for the job.

My main question being will a 2001 oem transmission skid work with the Rubicon transfer case or will I need to get a skid from a 2003+ due to the larger case? (not ruling out the option of an upgraded skid)

Also, does anyone have any bookmarks or links to a detailed thread. I have searched for a write-up but either none have been made or I am using the wrong search criteria. Any information will help. Thank you in advance.

Most importantly since I already have the axles and lockers from a Rubicon will my jeep be considered a sporticon or a rubisport after the swap?

Chris said:

I've never done this swap, but I know a few have. Here's a how-to thread on the forum about it: NV241 Rock Trac Transfer Case Swap

I can tell you for 100% certain that your 2001 skid plate will not work. The Rubicon transfer case hangs lower than the earlier models did, so you're going to need a transfer case skid from an 03-06 model. However, at that point I'd just tuck it and do a flat skid plate (or as flat as you can).

Lastly, once it's all said and done, the only thing keeping it from being a Rubicon would be the VIN itself. When you swapped the axles and lockers, did you get all the factory wiring wired up so that the factory locker switch activates the lights on the gauge cluster when the lockers are engaged?

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Thanks for a nudge in the right direction. If my dash has the indicator for the lockers that would be news to me. Guess I always figured since it was an option in 2004 a 2001 would not have it. I'm going to have to look tomorrow because if its there I'll need to find out how to wire it up.

What I did for the pumps since I don't have a 2003+ skid is mounted them to the tray in the engine bay on the drivers side. I wired the axles signal wire to an led light so I can be assured there is pressure in the system while off-road and hopefully can fix any pressure issues before I am in a spot where I really need them to work. Major downside is that I need to correct is that currently there is no fail safe in place that would stop someone from activating the locker while I'm cruising down the highway at 70 mph.

Kevin E said:

I took a couple suggestions from Jerry B when doing mine. Pumps on the tray as you did and quality toggle switches for pumps. I had the same switches as what you have and found that my hand could accidentally flip the switch from shifting. I didn't hook up any indicator lights just power. You can definately feel when axles are locked plus I can hear pumps engage. Nice job. They light up when switched on. View attachment 36838

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My idea is to either swap out the switches I have currently for ones similar to yours or to install a small safety switch below that will cut power unless toggled.