SYE FOR ME

The new process 231J is arguably the best overall transfer case installed in a Jeep from the factory. It’s not the strongest, nor does it have the most features, but if looked at as a whole, it’s a great package. They are readily available, in expensive, fit various applications, have a decent low range (2.72 to 1), easy to work on, large aftermarket parts support, quiet, smooth operation, moderately strong, and lighter than cast iron.

- Christian Sturtz

In this article, we are going to cover the installation of a Ten Factory slip yoke eliminator (SYE) kit. We will also overview the teardown and reassembly of the 231J. The advantage of installing a SYE is that it gets rid of the weak failure-prone slip yoke, and it allows you to run a longer rear driveshaft, which gives you a better driveline angle. Additionally, a SYE would enable you to remove a transfer case drop (on equipped vehicles), giving you more ground clearance. (Figure 1)

We started the disassembly by draining the case, removing the 4x4 indicator, detent, and speedo drive. Then the slip yoke boot, dust shield, rear output seal, and snap ring were removed. Next, the rear tail shaft housing bolts are removed and the housing is carefully pried off the back case half. Finally, the front output yoke is removed. The two cases, once unbolted, are now ready to be split. It is important to pay attention to the bolt and harness tab locations by taking pictures or marking them. There are 3 different bolts going through the two case halves. (Figure 2)

Two of the bolts that go through the case halves have washers. These bolts are longer and go through the line up dowels for the two case halves. Next to these are notches for splitting the case. After all the bolts are removed, insert a large flat screwdriver into each and twist and/ or gently pry the case halves apart. This is a great time to take a few pictures to help with reassembly. Then slip the rear case half completely off the shaft, remove pump, and pickup.

To finish disassembly on the rear case half, remove the bearing from the case. To remove this bearing, you will need a collet type puller, which often can be rented/borrowed from local parts stores. (Figure 3)