Technical Difference between 229 and 1339

[Andrew]

Having owned a 1339 and a now a 229, what are the main technical diferences? The operation is VERY similar.

229
2hi
4hi (full-time)
4lo (part-time)

1339
4lo/hi (full-time)
4lo/hi (part-time, e-drive)

1339 (with part time kit)
2hi
4hi (part-time)
4lo (part-time)

So basically the 229 doesn't have 4lo fulltime and thats the only major difference. BUT inside the case what is technically different?

[jeepguzzi]

In short, EVERYTHING!! The 1339 was manufactured by the Borg Warner Corporation. The NP229 was made by the then named New Process Gear (hence the NP) Which I believe was part of General Motors. They are now known as New Venture Gear. As far as technical stuff, Some others are more well versed in this than I. They both split the power between front and rear, the differences in how they achieve it are for someone else to answer. I try not to have my transfer case open often enough to find out.

[mdill]

Jeepguzzi,

summed it up pretty well, they are similar in that the tranny hooks to one
end and two yokes come out the other ends, the power flow through the
units is different (all power flows though the 1339 chain, only front end
power goes though the 229 chain) the front / rear differential limited slip
method is very different (Cone clutches on 1339, viscous coupler on the
229) I think you can use the same wrench to turn some bolts on either
case but that is about where intercangablity ends. Both are pretty good
cases, I give the 1339 the edge on strenght, but only if mantained right.

Mike D.

[Bob Barry]

Another big difference is what happens when you take them apart. The BW unit uses caged bearings, while the NP units use caged bearings, bronze bushings and 202 loose roller bearings in two different sizes.

The BW is also a LOT more compact; I've laid them side-by-side, and the BWQT is about 3/4 the size of the NP229.