2002 Dakota 4.7 4X4 - NV233 transfer case with electric shifter.


I pull a 2-trailer rig. The 5th wheel camping trailer has a 2" receiver welded to the frame and rear bumper. A 2" ball then pulls a 3-rail motorcycle trailer carrying 1 to 3 dirt bikes. So, there is a lot of weight which is about equal to the maximum towing capacity of the truck.

This fall I would like to take the full rig to a hunting spot near the California Sierra Crest. The highway has a short distance with 26% grade on both sides of the crest. I think it NOT a good idea to try it with my fully loaded rig in 2WD-High range, but I would not hesitate in low range. Problem is the road is paved and I worry that I could damage the drivetrain in 4WD. Just wondering if there is any way to shift the NV233 transfer case into low range but not into 4WD - or to somehow cause the front axles to freewheel. For those of you who remember exterior locking hubs, that was the yester-year solution before we saw them superseded by the super convenient auto-locking front axles of today.

I am not adverse to installing a kit or making minor modifications to the transfer case.

Thanks,

Geno

 

This isn't possible in any way as I can see it. The shift to 4 low is in the opposite direction from 2wd. On the stack it goes 2WD, 4HI, N, 4L. The shift fork physically lifts or lowers a gear to engage in different spots to set the mode. Unfortunately you would have to build a completely custom t-case in a separate order to make that possible. Removing the front drive shaft is also not possible since all the power will just be sent to the unhooked side. You'll get down the hill but not much further. There might be a company that makes custom T cases with that function though. Luckily NP231's and NP233's were installed in damn near every 4x4 for some reason. Might be something to look into.

 

Unfortunately, the NV233 does not allow 2WD low range, and 4wd is locked. What you'd be looking for is a NV244 (has internal differential in 4wd), which I don't think will bolt up to the (5)45RFE nor work with the factory electric shifter.

I don't know if the front stub shafts or the front driveshaft can be removed without risking the strength of the front hubs or transfercase front output seal.

I think your best option will be to utilize tow-haul mode to lock the trans in direct drive, or possibly use manual 2nd (1.67:1).