Information About 1979 4X4 Chevy Transfer Cases
by Steve Hamilton
There were two transfer cases available on Chevy trucks in 1979. New Process made both gear boxes. Although first introduced in the early 1970s, the strength and durability of these gear boxes make them popular with off-road enthusiasts in 2011.
NP203
The NP203 is a full-time, four-wheel drive transfer-case. There are two high and two low gear-selector positions, plus neutral. The gear ratios are 2.01-to-1 in low and 1-to-1 in high. When in high or low lock, the transfer case differential turns the front and rear axles at the same speed. The NP203 is chain driven.
NP205
The NP205 is a part-time, four-wheel-drive transfer case. There are three gear-selector positions, plus neutral. Four-wheel-drive is available in a low range of 1.96-to-1 and a high range of 1-to-1. Two-wheel drive is high-range only; the front drive shaft does not rotate in the high range. The NP205 is gear-driven.
Considerations
Although both transfer cases are stout, the NP205 is the favorite of serious off-road enthusiasts and Chevy aficionados; this is because of its gear drive and cast-iron case. The NP205 has a slight edge in fuel mileage and component wear, because it was designed as a true, part-time four-wheel gear box. Aftermarket kits to convert NP203 equipped vehicles to part-time operation are available.
References
Writer Bio
Steve Hamilton has been writing professionally since 1983. His credits include novels under the Dell imprint and for Harlequin Worldwide. A remodeling and repair specialist with over 20 years experience, he is also a Certified Pool Operator and holds an EPA Universal refrigerant certification.
