NP 229 and Lockout Question, Just Confirming

[80wag]

So if I put manual lockouts on the front D44 of a '90 Model with a NP 229 TC, as long as I don't flip the interior switch to 4wd with the wheels unlocked I should be fine?

I plan on putting in a NP 208 later as soon as the funds get situated.
Which Jeep NP 208 should I use? Which one not to use?

If I do flip the switch on the first question it will burn up the v.coupler?

Thanks, Mario in Fort Worth

[Tonka J200]

I have lock-outs on my '91 and have not had any problems. I put them on before I took my Jeep to Ouray this year and averaged almost 15 MPG for the trip. Did the lock-outs contribute to the good mileage? I don't know, but they sure didn't hurt. I've put about 5000 miles on the Jeep since the hubs were installed and everything's still hunky-dorey.

To answer your question;
Yes, you'll be fine as long as you don't flip to 4WD and drive with the hubs unlocked. You'll be shopping for your 208 sooner than you'd like if you do.

[Lindel]

That's correct. With manual hubs you run the risk of burning the viscous coupler up if you select 4wd.

As far as I know, there's only one Jeep 208. It'll be a driver's drop, just like the 229, and will bolt up to a 727. The only thing you need to look for is that it's got the 23 spline input. That way you'll know it will bolt up.

[80wag]

Thanks guys, I had some bearing failure and am having to replace the outer passenger side, outer shaft, hub, spindle and bearings, meanwhile putting on the lockouts. Appreciate the information.

[FSJ Guy]

Unless you already own the lockout hubs, I wouldn't bother with the conversion. Not worth the 0.10% of mileage increase that you MIGHT get vs. the potential of someone else flipping that switch and toasting your VC. Unless you are really absolutely only the ONLY driver of your Jeep.

EDIT: DUH. I just saw you're going to put in a 208. Never mind....

[fulsizjeep]

There were a few different Jeep 208 configs. If I remember right, one of them won't fit your 727. I think it was the T18 application for the J20. It was also bolted to the T176 and T177 4 speeds in J10s and Cherokees. Might want to get feedback from someone or resource that know's for sure. Probably search on "229 208 upgrade" or similar on this board.

[billyrb]

yep on the 2 diff. 208's, they had diff. spline counts (28 vs. 30 I believe, it was in a J20 with a manual as I recall). For the 229 & lock-outs, you won't gain anything by installing them and yes you will risk burning it up when you accidentally knock the switch b4 locking the hubs.

[80wag]

Thanks for the input guys, I am the only driver of my jeep so I'm going to risk it. If it does get ruined I won't be too upset because I'm looking forward to having a vacuum free drivetrain. A 208 with a t176 is for sale in Tennesee, I wonder if that one will work. Mario