early np203

[wazzabie]

how is the strength of the early np203 that has the solid cast metal output housing compared to the later Np203s? There also is a chain size difference I believe.

 

[blazinzuk]

The older ones have a 2.5" chain. I think 77 is when they went to the 2"

If you have the cast iron output it's a 2.5"

 

[Recon 78]

also the earlier ones have a solid steel diff carrier instead of stamped
much stronger and helps part time conversion survive

 

[wazzabie]

the np203 has not been converted to part time. I have locking hubs in he axle. If I keep the locking hubs locked permently would that work with the full time np 203 or do I need to also get the full time hubs? I only want to run full time 4x4.

 

[Recon 78]

if you unlock the hubs and put the case in 4 hi loc you will be in 2 wd but the driveshaft and axles will still b engaged.

permanent hubs are more durable, but I see lots of guys running lockouts and not having issues.

 

[wazzabie]

Is the length the same between the early and late NP 203 design?

 

[Recon 78]

on my 78 case I measure
22.5 from front mounting to tip of rear output yoke
11.25 from rear aluminum output housing mount to tip of yoke