When it comes to off-road driving, one of the most crucial components of a vehicle is the transfer case. It is responsible for transferring power from the transmission to the front and rear axles, enabling the vehicle to traverse through uneven terrains. One of the most popular transfer cases used in off-road vehicles is the Np205 Divorced Transfer Case.
What is the Np205 Divorced Transfer Case?
The Np205 Divorced Transfer Case is a gear-driven transfer case that was introduced in 1969 by New Process Gear. It was designed specifically for use in heavy-duty trucks and off-road vehicles, and it quickly gained popularity among enthusiasts due to its durability and strength.
The term "divorced" refers to the fact that the transfer case is mounted separately from the transmission, unlike other transfer cases that are integrated with the transmission. This design allows for better weight distribution and improved drivetrain reliability.
Features of the Np205 Divorced Transfer Case
The Np205 Divorced Transfer Case has several features that make it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts:
- Heavy-duty construction: The transfer case is made of cast iron, which makes it extremely strong and durable.
- Gear-driven: The Np205 uses gear-driven components, which provide better strength and reliability compared to chain-driven transfer cases.
- Multiple gear ratios: The transfer case offers several gear ratios, allowing drivers to choose the ideal setting for their particular driving conditions.
- Manual shifting: The Np205 is manually shifted, which gives drivers more control over their vehicle's performance.
- Low range gearing: The transfer case offers a low range gear ratio, which provides more torque and better control when driving in challenging terrains.
Advantages of the Np205 Divorced Transfer Case
The Np205 Divorced Transfer Case offers several advantages over other transfer cases:
- Strength and durability: The transfer case is built to withstand heavy use and abuse, making it an ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts.
- Improved weight distribution: The divorced design allows for better weight distribution, which improves overall vehicle performance.
- Improved reliability: The Np205's gear-driven components provide improved reliability compared to chain-driven transfer cases.
- Increased control: The manual shifting and low range gearing give drivers more control over their vehicle's performance in challenging terrains.
Disadvantages of the Np205 Divorced Transfer Case
While the Np205 Divorced Transfer Case has many advantages, it also has some disadvantages:
- Weight: The transfer case is heavy, which can affect fuel economy and overall vehicle performance.
- Cost: The Np205 is more expensive than some other transfer cases.
- Installation: The divorced design of the transfer case may require additional modifications to the drivetrain during installation.
Conclusion
The Np205 Divorced Transfer Case is a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts due to its strength, durability, and reliability. While it may have some disadvantages, its many advantages make it a worthwhile investment for serious off-road drivers.