# Matching a 96 Dakota transfer case

**URL:** <https://community.cartalk.com/t/matching-a-96-dakota-transfer-case/78896>\
**Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\
**Tags:** dakota, dodge\
**Created:** [April 24, 2013, 5:03am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/matching-a-96-dakota-transfer-case/78896 "2013-04-24T05:03:02Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![fomoco1961](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/f/ce7236/32.png) [@fomoco1961](https://community.cartalk.com/u/fomoco1961)\
**Post date:** [April 24, 2013, 5:03am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/matching-a-96-dakota-transfer-case/78896/1 "2013-04-24T05:03:02Z")

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I have a 96 Dakota 4x4 that i need to replace the transfer case and have been told it has to be the exact same model. It is a 231 D / 5210 5095 / 2 12 96 3 / 272 on the tag. I am wondering if there is a reason for the exact match and if there are ways to make other models work. The case broke apart but other than that i think maybe a bearing or race caused the damage probably due to lack of oil or water in case.  
Thanks for any help

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**Author:** ![Nevada\_545](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/nevada_545/32/41232_2.png) [@Nevada\_545](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Nevada_545)\
**Post date:** [April 24, 2013, 6:11am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/matching-a-96-dakota-transfer-case/78896/2 "2013-04-24T06:11:09Z")

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You will want to get one from another Dakota to be sure it fits. A random transfer case may not bolt up to your trasmission and the drive shafts may not line up.

Not all of those numbers need to match, you are looking for a model NP231(the first # on your list).  
The Chrysler part # 5210 5095 may not match on the used part depending on year.  
The next # is the date. The last # is the low range ratio, that should match.