The isomerization of the xylenes, catalyzed by partially multivalent metal cation exchanged, partially decationized Type Y zeolites,is invariably accompanied by transalkylation, and the degree of isomerization is proportional to the extent of transalkylation. An equilibrium distribution of the xylenes is obtained when over 50% transalkylation has occurred in agreement with calculated values. Data from the transalkylation of the trimethylbenzenes with benzene indicated that this reaction proceeds via a bimolecular mechanism. Such a mechanism, involving a diphenylalkane-type transition state, is proposed for xylene isomerization and satisfactorily accounts for the observed results. © 1969, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.