NV3500

[Logs0012]

Alrighty here's the situation. My truck is mainly going to be a road rig and I want the get better mpg and have a better highway speed with lower rpms. I was wondering if anybody has put a NV3500 transmission on a Buick 350 Dauntless. If you have pics and advice would be much appreciated.

Big question is will a NV3500 bolt straight up to a 350?

[Tornado230]

Try Novak and Advance Adapters for the info you are requesting.
Also, Google NV3550. You will also find info on the transmission.

[The PIG Smith]

Chevy 350 Dauntless.
The engine you have is not a Chevrolet, but a Buick engine.
The Buick 350 Dauntless uses the BOP (also known as the BOPC) bell housing bolt pattern.
This is important when looking for a bell for a NV3500 for your Buick.

[Logs0012]

I've checked Novak but the don't have anything on what engine the trans will mate with.

[JeepinPete]

GM and Dodge/Jeep used the NV3500. They have an integral bell housing, and none were cast with the BOP pattern. If you could find a Chevy to Buick bell housing adapter, you would have a start. You would still have to experiment with parts to figure out a clutch setup that would work for you.

[Logs0012]

I know that they were also used in some chevy trucks, what type of adapter would I need? Buick 350 to chevy 350?

[jepj2000]

Sorry for the kinda highjack, but is the NV3500 much different from the 3550, what are the differences? I don't really need a NV4500, so I've been kinda lookin for lighter duty 5spds. Also I don't know if it exists or not but is there a bolt on OD that would say bolt between a T18a/D20 combo?

I've been considering a 5spd OD trans for my J2000 as well and have been steered away by companies like Novak and others from using the NV3550 because of company going out of business and not being a very reliable tranny, what are yalls thoughts? I was told to use the '94+ AX15 tranny instead, suppose to be good up to around 400hp-450hp (info from same companies). I would like a little deeper 1st gear than the AX15 has, what is the 1st gear in the NV3500?

Thanks,
Rankin

[Logs0012]

One version has a 4.1 first gear and another version has a 3.5 first gear

Totally aren't highjacking this, sounds like we are working towards the same thing that's fine by me. I hadn't ever thought of a bolt on overdrive.

[TheJeeper]

Sorry for the kinda highjack, but is the NV3500 much different from the 3550, what are the differences? I don't really need a NV4500, so I've been kinda lookin for lighter duty 5spds. Also I don't know if it exists or not but is there a bolt on OD that would say bolt between a T18a/D20 combo?

I've been considering a 5spd OD trans for my J2000 as well and have been steered away by companies like Novak and others from using the NV3550 because of company going out of business and not being a very reliable tranny, what are yalls thoughts? I was told to use the '94+ AX15 tranny instead, suppose to be good up to around 400hp-450hp (info from same companies). I would like a little deeper 1st gear than the AX15 has, what is the 1st gear in the NV3500?

Thanks,
Rankin
Don't use the AX-15, it's a lighter (duty) tranny than a '3550. As far as bold on O/D's, I know of none. There may be some sort of bolt on range box that I'm unaware of, but I'm certain it would be pricey. Yo could buy a 4spd atlas T-case, and have one O/D ratio, but that's pricey as well.

The only other O/D option, is to get a Spicer 18 and acquire a warn O/D for it, that's what I'm doing.

[Logs0012]

How much is that costing?

[JeepinPete]

I don't know how much in common the GM and Jeep versions of the NV3500 are. If the internals are the same, then they are plenty strong enough for a FSJ. They were an option in GM 1/2 pickups, rated a 300ftlb input torque, 8000lb GVW. I've been running one behind a 5.3L GM V8, rated at 285hp, 325 ftlb torque, and have had zero issues in 25k miles. But I do not beat on a transmission, ie no clutch dumps, no power shifting, etc.

[jepj2000]

Huh, ok well maybe I should just go with a NV4500 just to be on the safe side. I'm kind thinkin of having a pretty hot motor in my J2000 like a semi built 360/401, so there might be some clutch dumping and power shifting that might happen from time to time:D. It won't be used as a hardcore trail rig, just mild trails, so those kinda stresses won't be a problem.

The setup I wish I could have would be a T18/OD/D20. That way I keep the tough as nails retro tranny with granny gear, but also have a OD I could engage on the highway. I'm keeping the D20 for the PTO winch setup I'm planning on running. I also wouldn't mind spending some $$$ on it as I'm not planning on a budget build for the truck anyway, It's just going to take a really long time to finish the project:banghead:. One goal for the truck is to have lots of shifters coming from the floarboard, I like shifters, they are fun:thumbsup:.

Rankin

[Chumley360]

Novak has a NV3550 to GM bellhousing adapter. This bolts to the trans side of the bellhousing(obviously) and that pattern should be shared by all GMs, with only the engine side being different. This might be easier than trying to find a Chevy to BOPC unit. Here's a link to the site:

http://www.novak-adapt.com/catalog/kit_gm3550.htm

Also this is a link to one of the best bellhousing swap/fit list's I've seen. You may have to join the site to view it though:

http://www.jeeps-offroad.com/f41/engine-swap-bellhousings-4740/

[reddawn222]

It would appear from the information on the jeepsoffroad.com site that a NV3550 from a 88-99 4.0L straight six allows a direct bolt up for a 360/401 V8. See point #4 in Part I of the linked article.

If so, that's the way to go.

[gte901m]

Also this is a link to one of the best bellhousing swap/fit list's I've seen. You may have to join the site to view it though:

http://www.jeeps-offroad.com/f41/engine-swap-bellhousings-4740/

Man, that is some handy info.

[TheJeeper]

How much is that costing?

The 4-speed atlas?

[TheJeeper]

It would appear from the information on the jeepsoffroad.com site that a NV3550 from a 88-99 4.0L straight six allows a direct bolt up for a 360/401 V8. See point #4 in Part I of the linked article.

If so, that's the way to go.
From what vehicle? The NV3550 was only used on TJ's '00 through '04, and XJ's '00 through '01. The YJ's, '91 through '95, and XJ's, '88 through '99 were AX-15's.

[Logs0012]

yea, the atlas

[TheJeeper]

yea, the atlas

$2800 built to your specs, i.e: gear ratio, pass. or driver drop, bolt pattern, yoke size, etc.

[Long&Low]

Swap in a 4.0 ltr.....

[TheJeeper]

Swap in a 4.0 ltr.....
That's quite an undertaking, plus he'll only have a little more than half the torque of the 350.

Was your J10 a 360 originally?

[Logs0012]

How much does the warn od cost?

[DAHoyle]

Yo could buy a 4spd atlas T-case, and have one O/D ratio, but that's pricey as well.



Please provide info on said OD Atlas. I have never seen mention of one. The 4 speed Atlas is nothing more than one of their 2 speed boxes, with a planetary between it and the Tranny, and unless one of their 2 speeds came with OD, which I have never seen or heard of, then it ain't happening.

Stak had a 3 speed case with OD, but they discontinued it. Not sure it even really made it to production before it was cut.

[TheJeeper]

How much does the warn od cost?

Okay, so first you have to find a "big hole" Dana 18 to mate to your tranny. Warn O/D's mount on the PTO port on that 'case. They can run anywhere from $50 bucks at a junkyard, to $900 new from advance adapters. They were optional on CJ's, Willys pickups, Willys Wagons and Commandos from IIRC '51-'69. They're pretty rare in junkyards, so you'd have a better chance of buying one from somebody that's parting out a Jeep for probably around the $200-$300 range. They're well worth it, though.

[Logs0012]

Would I be able to have a gear made to take the place of a granny low on a T18?

[DAHoyle]

Not 100 percent sure if it could be made to work, but If I absolutely had to have an OD behind that engine, I would be seriously looking at the Ranger OD. I' know it isn't offered for that engine, but I would think that a Chevy version could be modified to work, or that the bell housing could be modified to work with the OD. FFor that matter, the Ford version could likely be adapted to work as well. You can order it to bolt to either a Ford or a Chevy transmision, giving you the option of either a NP435, T-18, SM420 or SM465.

None of these are a bolt in (will require some machine work), but I believe I can state categoricaly that you are not going to find a bolt in solution except the Spicer 18, and I would not even consider that option, as it has it's own issues, which can not be gotten around.

[TheJeeper]

Not 100 percent sure if it could be made to work, but If I absolutely had to have an OD behind that engine, I would be seriously looking at the Ranger OD. I' know it isn't offered for that engine, but I would think that a Chevy version could be modified to work, or that the bell housing could be modified to work with the OD. FFor that matter, the Ford version could likely be adapted to work as well. You can order it to bolt to either a Ford or a Chevy transmision, giving you the option of either a NP435, T-18, SM420 or SM465.

None of these are a bolt in (will require some machine work), but I believe I can state categoricaly that you are not going to find a bolt in solution except the Spicer 18, and I would not even consider that option, as it has it's own issues, which can not be gotten around.

Why wouldn't you consider a Spicer 18 and warn O/D combo?

[Logs0012]

The custom I/d is sounding better

[TheJeeper]

Just so you know, the Ranger O/D box is right at $1500 without shipping, with shipping and machine work, around $1750 would be a good estimate.

[DAHoyle]

Why wouldn't you consider a Spicer 18 and warn O/D combo?
For one thing, it is an offset rear output, so the power has to go thru the cluster gear to get to the output. That particular bearing is pretty much the weak point on a Spicer 18, and is prone to wear, and since there is no race. it rides directly on the shaft which also wears quickly. It was ok on a rig that had a 55mph highway speed, and weighed 2000 lbs, but it is not up to the task of hauling a FSJ around at speed, especially if you factor in larger tires.

That isn't gospel, just my opinion. The basis of my opinion is rooted in rock tho. That is simply a design flaw of the case. I'm not 100% certain, but I believe the OD comes in before that point, on the mainshaft, so the intermediate cluster will not be reduced in speed.

If you want to keep that engine, then you are going to have to be a little imaginative. I only stated what I would be looking at. I'm sure there are other options for a creative sort of guy, but that particular setup seems pretty straightforward. Getting a tranny pattern (OD pattern in this case) matched to a bellhousing isn't rocket science, and from there it's all a bolt in.

The first thing you need to know is the stickout on your transmission input shaft and input bearing retainer. As long as the input shaft of the Ranger is longer, it pretty much just requires an adapter plate, and who knows, it might bolt up as it is. I didn't see what tranny you have right now, so I can't say. I'm sure someone more familiar with the older rigs will chime in.

If you want a cheaper or simpler option, I'd have to say ditch the Buick.

[TheJeeper]

For one thing, it is an offset rear output, so the power has to go thru the cluster gear to get to the output. That particular bearing is pretty much the weak point on a Spicer 18, and is prone to wear, and since there is no race. it rides directly on the shaft which also wears quickly. It was ok on a rig that had a 55mph highway speed, and weighed 2000 lbs, but it is not up to the task of hauling a FSJ around at speed, especially if you factor in larger tires.

That isn't gospel, just my opinion. The basis of my opinion is rooted in rock tho. That is simply a design flaw of the case. I'm not 100% certain, but I believe the OD comes in before that point, on the mainshaft, so the intermediate cluster will not be reduced in speed.

If you want to keep that engine, then you are going to have to be a little imaginative. I only stated what I would be looking at. I'm sure there are other options for a creative sort of guy, but that particular setup seems pretty straightforward. Getting a tranny pattern (OD pattern in this case) matched to a bellhousing isn't rocket science, and from there it's all a bolt in.

The first thing you need to know is the stickout on your transmission input shaft and input bearing retainer. As long as the input shaft of the Ranger is longer, it pretty much just requires an adapter plate, and who knows, it might bolt up as it is. I didn't see what tranny you have right now, so I can't say. I'm sure someone more familiar with the older rigs will chime in.

If you want a cheaper or simpler option, I'd have to say ditch the Buick.

Yeah, I was just curious of your opinion. I bought two Spicer 18's for $100, plus I have another unused extra. I bought one for the input pattern, the other for front shifter assembly. I have heard of them being run with a built big block and 40's, although, I can't verify how long it lasted under those conditions. I'm going to run 35's and (eventually) build and turbo the 230 for about 250HP at most, which IMO, will be within the '18's strength limits. As I stated above, I have two extra cases, so spare parts are plentiful.

Logs is going to be running mostly highway with his, so there won't be much extreme wheeling, so I think an '18 is up to the challenge, but as I said, that's just my opinion.

[DAHoyle]

Logs is going to be running mostly highway with his, so there won't be much extreme wheeling, so I think an '18 is up to the challenge, but as I said, that's just my opinion.

Unfortunately, that is where the weakness rears it's head the most. On a straight thru case such as a 20 or a 205, or a 300, in 2WD, the cluster gear is just along for the ride . It is even sometimes refered to as the idler gear, which is accurate in that case. With a Spicer18, it is always under a load, and of course, at highway speeds, the wear is much worse. the bearings just are not up to it., and I don't beleve ths replacement shafts from overseas are properly hardened. I Think the ones from Novak are an improvement, but do nothing to change the underlying design flaws.

I would feel much more comfortable with an 18 offroad with moderate power and tires, than I would extended driving at 65mph.

[Logs0012]

Hear is what I was thinking:
1. Buy T18 transmission
2. Dissemble the T18
3. Lose the T18's granny gear
4. Slide every gear down one spot so that the first non granny gear is in the granny gears slot
5. Take measurements off the 1:1 gear and downscale it to a .73:1 in numbers and send the dimensions to a buddy of mine with a machine shop and have the gear made.
6. Put the new O/D gear where the 1:1 gear was
7. Reassemble the T18

[DAHoyle]

Hear is what I was thinking:
1. Buy T18 transmission
2. Dissemble the T18
3. Lose the T18's granny gear
4. Slide every gear down one spot so that the first non granny gear is in the granny gears slot
5. Take measurements off the 1:1 gear and downscale it to a .73:1 in numbers and send the dimensions to a buddy of mine with a machine shop and have the gear made.
6. Put the new O/D gear where the 1:1 gear was
7. Reassemble the T18
Well, If you think that is the way to go, then give it a shot and get back to us. I think you should spend some more time researching it before you do that tho, because it just doesn't work that way in the real world.

A "buddy in a machine shop" is quite unlikely to be able to machine a gear. That takes some pretty specialized equipment, and the right materials.

All in all, of all the posible options thrown out so far, that is the most unlikely to succeed. You can't just slide gears around on a shaft for one thing.

If you are really interested in an OD, for a stick, your best bet is to loose the Buick, but if you insist on running it, then consider the options that have been offered by Jeeper and myself. What you are considering is not an option, in any real sense of the word. It could be done, I suppose, if you had the resources, but I would be willing to bet that a complete gearset would have to be machined. Much easier and cheaper to just add an OD either in front of the tranny, or behind it.


Why are you so taken by the hype of an OD? If you can get away with a taller first gear, as you indicate, then you can just put taller gears in the axles. Then you can run a 1:1 final, and have the same end result.

This whole ordeal gets much simpler if you consider the entire package, rather than the tranny.

Spend some time studying different drivelines. They are engineered as a system, and everything is considered. Personally, I think that the NV3550 would be a relatively simple solution, as long as you can verify some dimensions. The Ranger is also a no-brainer, as is the Spicer18 OD, as long as you can live with it's limitations. A T18 close ratio, with a taller final drive ratio would work pretty well also, and you could go with a deeper low in the t-case to get some of your crawl back.

The first thing you need to decide is the use of the vehicle, and select a final drive ratio and tire size. Then and only then, can you start making educated and intelligent decisions on the rest of it.

[jeepdreamer]

Listen very closely to DA... he knows stuff!;) I agree with almost everything hes said with the sole exception of ditching the Buick 350. IMHO, the buick motors are sound and have power potential much like the jeep 360s. The only caviat to them is the BOP pattern. There are ways to work around this though. As i mentioned before i dealt with the same issues in my Buick 225 V6 in my Commando.
What kinda throwing me for a loop is having two of you guys with similar issues but different goals/budgets. If i confuse one for the other, please excuse me.
As to "re-inventing" the t18... i think your barking up the wrong tree. I am hardly the one to tell folks it can't be done. I just feel like your not likely to be able to pull it off without either spending Gobbs of cash developing it or constantly having mechanical failures. The folks that build the gears,spraggs,syncronizers,etc.. have engineering degrees and truly understand the relationships between all the elements involved in a trannies use. Load,wear, stress,how different metals react to each other, metal hardness... the list goes on! My point being i dont honestly believe "a friend with a machine shop" is gonna net you the design and quality for a part that will reside in the torture chamber of your tranny. I would go a different route.
As to mating a GM tranny to the buick Bell... that will depend (as DA mentioned) on a couple of factors. The diameter of the transmissions front bearing retainer and the length of the input shafts "stick-out". On some GM trannies the BR diameter is the same or close, on some like the SM465 it has 2 versions. Making the bigger diameter one fit is simply a matter of having the BR machined down and the Bell housing center hole enlarged so the 2 pcs fit closely into each other in whats called a "slip fit"... snug but not forced. As to the stickout of the input... that can be easy or hard. In some cases a shorter input can be made to work by using an offset "adapter" pilot bearing/bushing. A longer input may require a spacer to make it work (ie. an input thats 1" to long could work using a 1" plate spacer between the bell and the tranny).
My best suggestion is to determine what your end goal is. Figgure what kind of realistic budget you have to work with. Go through all the parts you have and determine what can be used and what may get sold to help with the funding. And most of all.... RESEARCH! ALOT!! Before you start plunking down the Mooolah... have a plan. I have wasted untold $$ in my life by trying to force stuff together since i had part "X" and i thought it would work. I've learned the expensive way that just because i already have a part "X"... doesnt mean that it is the best or most cost effective way to get to my goal. Often it costs way more to adapt to junk i have than it would have to sell part "X" and follow my plan. I hope that makes sense... it did in my head!?!
Adapting to buick motors you must also remember that Jeep was the Largest users of manual trannys behind buick motors. Most, other than the "hot rod/muscle cars" buicks got the auto. That being said i would search some of these sites for ideas.
-T/A Performance
-Buick Gods (?)
-JB conversions
-Early CJ5.com (lots of buick V6 info will apply!)
-jeepster commando club of America
-Trans-Dapt performance products
Sorry i can't figgure how to do "real" links.. google should help you with these. If I think of any more i will add them later.
Gotta go work on the jeep now... Later

[Logs0012]

DA: the reason i want the OD so bad is because I hate to be passed PERIOD, right now, I have to wrap my engine up tight to keep up with highway traffic and I don't like that.

This buddy of mine has been a machinist his hole life, not only is he a machinist but he is an engineer.

[DAHoyle]

DA: the reason i want the OD so bad is because I hate to be passed PERIOD, right now, I have to wrap my engine up tight to keep up with highway traffic and I don't like that.

This buddy of mine has been a machinist his hole life, not only is he a machinist but he is an engineer.

Well, Whatever his qualifications, unless he has a gear hobbing machine, and the tooling to cut your particular gear, then it isn't happening, and if he is truly a mechanical engineer, then he will tell you that what you want to do is ridiculous. I hate to be terse, but you have been given good advise and want to defend a bad idea.

There is nothing wrong with ideas, but nobody ever did anything with an idea, without either having the experience/intuition to pull it off, or recruiting people with experience in the areas he needs help in.

That said, being passed has nothing to do with whether or not you have an overdrive, and your attitude about it is somewhat childish. If you absolutely refuse to be passed, then not only is your engine choice a poor one, but your entire vehicle is the wrong choice. Might want to look into a Porsche(European Spec) or a Ferrari or some other exotic, if that is your goal.

If your goal is to be able to run at highway/interstate speeds, without winding your motor so tight, then there are many other ways to accomplish that. You have not even addressed tire size and axle gearing, and jumped right into the most complicated means of accomplishing your goal, without having the requisite knowledge to pull it off, and then discounting the knowledge and experience of those who might actually be able to help. Like I said, I hate to be short tempered, but your last post was somewhat childish and dismissive. I'm not about to waste my time trying to convince someone who has already made up his mind. Feel free to do what you want. It was not my intention to tell you what to do, just point out different options. If you are so certain that you can do it your way, then you really shouldn't need my help, so I'll happily leave you to your fairy tale.

Feel free to review the following photo tho, so you can explain exactly how you are going to do it to those who are interested.

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h104/dahoyle/t18-transmission-parts.gif

[Logs0012]

From your last post i got the feeling that I know absolutely nothing about engines in vehicles or transmission.

Nobody has ever gotten anything done without trying other options and failing, the only way to get things done is to try thing and if they don't work you take your losses on the chin and you try something else.

On the subject of the blow up that you post I would remove the granny low and replace it with an OD not in the same place but it would still be in the trans.

[DAHoyle]

From your last post i got the feeling that I know absolutely nothing about engines in vehicles or transmission.

Nobody has ever gotten anything done without trying other options and failing, the only way to get things done is to try thing and if they don't work you take your losses on the chin and you try something else. I tend to try to do myhomework before I "try" something. Your chances of sucess are increased tenfold. I'm not a big fan of taking it on the chin. Like to win te first time out.

On the subject of the blow up that you post I would remove the granny low and replace it with an OD not in the same place but it would still be in the trans. Just going to machine one little gear, huh. Did you happen to notice item #4 on the drawing?
There is nothing to try in this case, as you can see from the drawing. and as near as I can tell you know very little about engines and transmissions.

As I said, Nothing wrong with ideas, but without actual information, they are useless. I have had many ideas over the years that were bad ones, as has everyone here that has ever attempted to do something a little out of the box. The bottom line, is that if you don't want people do ridicule you for completely outlandish ideas, you need to do a little homework to know if they are feasible. Had you spent the 3 minutes earching for a picture such as the one I posted, you would have dropped that particular idea before even mentioning it, and moved on to something that might actually work.

Why do you even bother posting questions, if you are so sure you know more thn those responding?

[Logs0012]

I was trying to get input but it seems to me that all you are trying to do is shoot down my ideas. I was hoping for help not criticism. I thought that my truck had a Chevy and once i found out that it wasn't i turned to a modified version of the one ton transmission but it appears as though I am not allowed to try things. I'm sorry i was curios and I'm sorry i posted on this because it appears as though I don't know enough to post hear.

People learn by trying, how else do you think there would be so many different mods that people have done to their Jeeps?

I was hoping to get information not criticized.

[DAHoyle]

I was trying to get input but it seems to me that all you are trying to do is shoot down my ideas. I was hoping for help not criticism. I thought that my truck had a Chevy and once i found out that it wasn't i turned to a modified version of the one ton transmission but it appears as though I am not allowed to try things. I'm sorry i was curios and I'm sorry i posted on this because it appears as though I don't know enough to post hear.

People learn by trying, how else do you think there would be so many different mods that people have done to their Jeeps?

I was hoping to get information not criticized.
?????

I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about.

Am I guilty of tryiong to shoot down an utterly rediculous idea? Absolutely.
Would you rather I tell you how grand an idea is, and encourage you to waste your time and money.

What does having a Chevy, or a Buick or an AMC or anything else have with designing your own transmission. You were not looking for help, or you would have heeded any number of suggestions from myself as well as others, rather than trying to impress us all with your fool idea. Had you dropped it after you were told it wouldn't work, and why it wouldn't work, then that would indicate that you were looking for help.

Being ignorrant about something does not automatically give you a free pass. It is generally overlooked, but it is noticed. Generally, peoples ignorance here is rewarded with additional information from the folks who have been around awhile, so there is absolutely nothing wrong with it. That is how we all learn. We all are ignorant about one thing or another, until we take the time to either educate ourselves or be educated by others. You steadfastly refuse both of those courses of action.

Ignorrance is nothing more than not knowing something. It is completely normal. Celebrating your ignorrance is another matter altogether. when you feel you are too smart to learn something, then that is a celebration of ignorrance.

As I said, if you ask a question here, you will almost always get a response. It would be prudent to listen to the response. If you don't, then there is no reason to ask, and you are wasting everyones time.

There were several options listed. Instead of trying to convince us that your friend can in fact, turn a T18 into an overdrive, by simply machining a gear for you, why don't you go back and study the thread for other more viable alternatives. I'll give you a hint. They are all better ideas than that and any one of them will likely succeed, while your idea is almost certainly doomed to failure. If that is too much trouble for you, then you and your questions are certainly too much trouble for me. I, quite simply don't know how to go about redesigning a tranny. If you wish to discuss any of the other options, I will certainly give you the benefit of my limited knowledge.

Quit the pity party. You have been given a lot of ideas, and chose to follow your own path. That's your decision, not mine, and the consequences are yours to live with. My opinion apparently doesn't mean much to you, so it shouldn't bother you that I am trying to shoot down a bad idea.

Oh, by the way, Trying new ideas is not how things are accomplished. Things are accomplished by aquiring knowldege, mostly about what has been done before, and then expanding on that. Very few things are accomplished by blindly "trying", without having an understanding of what went on before you, in this hobby, or any other endeavor.

If it is too much trouble to educate yourself, you are not going to succeed, despite all the trying in the world.

You can take all this as friendly advice and move forward, or you can keep whining about how mean I am.

[jeepdreamer]

Man, I left for a few hours and this post has turned UGLY! ACK:eek: . In the effort to not continue this i would like to state this...
Your ideas are your ideas. Try them if you like, feel free to share what you learn with others. If it works for you, Awesome!!! I think what many of us here have been trying to do is explain that in our opinion, it will not. It is simpley our intent to save you from wasting your time and money. Most of us here have been doing things "on the cheap" for a very long time. As a result we have garnered a feel for what is most likely to result in a grenaded part(s) and money flushed away. Maybe it will work out for you. I'd like to see you work it out. Good luck.

[Elliott]

Hear is what I was thinking:
1. Buy T18 transmission
2. Dissemble the T18
3. Lose the T18's granny gear
4. Slide every gear down one spot so that the first non granny gear is in the granny gears slot
5. Take measurements off the 1:1 gear and downscale it to a .73:1 in numbers and send the dimensions to a buddy of mine with a machine shop and have the gear made.
6. Put the new O/D gear where the 1:1 gear was
7. Reassemble the T18

I haven't read up on it for a couple years but IH did something similar to build a Clark 5 spd. It had a screwy shift pattern though. Maybe someone here is a IH buff and knows how it was done.
Still, even if you could do it and got a durable gear cut I think it would be cheaper to use an NV4500 like I did with my Buick 455, it will require another transfer case however and to keep passenger side drop I had to modify a GM tailhousing on a Dodge NV4500 using a GM mainshaft and late model GM NP205.
Another option might be to find a 2spd rear axle that can run the same gears and fit the same rims.... ;)

[Long&Low]

That's quite an undertaking, plus he'll only have a little more than half the torque of the 350.

Was your J10 a 360 originally?

No, my J10 originally had a 258. But swapping over to a I6 from a V8, isn't that difficult. Some motor mounts, getting the right 'puter. Re-doing the tranny mount/ cross member.

The idea was to lend an idea on how to get a 5 speed into his truck. Which was / is his intent. While my suggestion may not be the optimal, the idea was to get him thinking in different directions than were he was heading, and were other folks were leading him. Sometimes it makes more sense to do a full drive train swap than to force what you already have work.

Besides what 40 year old truck out there wouldn't benefit from a drivetrain update?

[DAHoyle]

No, my J10 originally had a 258. But swapping over to a I6 from a V8, isn't that difficult. Some motor mounts, getting the right 'puter. Re-doing the tranny mount/ cross member.

The idea was to lend an idea on how to get a 5 speed into his truck. Which was / is his intent. While my suggestion may not be the optimal, the idea was to get him thinking in different directions than were he was heading, and were other folks were leading him. Sometimes it makes more sense to do a full drive train swap than to force what you already have work.

Besides what 40 year old truck out there wouldn't benefit from a drivetrain update?

Not sure how a 6 would fit in with his stated goal of "the reason i want the OD so bad is because I hate to be passed PERIOD"

What we need to do is start a new thread about how that is a bad sentiment from anyone, but how it is a really bad sentiment coming form a teenager with a 5000 lb weapon at his disposal. He is not interested in reason or common sense, as has been displayed by his attitude about the advice he has been given.

[Logs0012]

DAhoyle: I wanted to say that I was sorry I think that this pissing contest started because I was being a thick skulled teenager. Sometimes we tend to let our mouth get ahead of our mind.

While I hate to be passed that doesn't it doesn't happen. Yes I have a big vehicle but that is for the safety people that are riding with me. I have been driving since i could reach the pedals on the tractor, while it isn't a vehicle it gives you the same feel of space and it lets you get past the " Holy crap I'm driving" thing.

Thank you for your advice and I'm sorry if I have angered you in any way.

[DAHoyle]

DAhoyle: I wanted to say that I was sorry I think that this pissing contest started because I was being a thick skulled teenager. Sometimes we tend to let our mouth get ahead of our mind.

While I hate to be passed that doesn't it doesn't happen. Yes I have a big vehicle but that is for the safety people that are riding with me. I have been driving since i could reach the pedals on the tractor, while it isn't a vehicle it gives you the same feel of space and it lets you get past the " Holy crap I'm driving" thing.

Thank you for your advice and I'm sorry if I have angered you in any way.

Son, Thank you for the appology. I'm not angered. I was a bit dissapointed in your attitude, as everyone here was going out of their way to assist you. This post goes a long way towards establishing goodwill, and I would be quite eager to assist you where I can. I was a teenager once, and my attitudes weren't much different that yours are now. Since then, I'd like to think that, with the help of others along the way, I've learned a few things. I absolutely love all things automotive, and am always interested in hearing new ideas, but at the same time, some things are best left to experts.

For your own peace of mind, study the photo I posted, and really analyze it, and I think you will come to the same conclusion I did about modifying a T18 with a different gearset. It just isn't as simple as it seems. I don't think that will get you any closer to your goal, but it will give you a better understanding of how they actually go together.

By all means, keep looking at different options. I really like your first one with the 3550, and I think it could very easily work, but there are some things you have to do. When you start talking about adapting things to work, in places they were not originally intended, then you absolutely have got to button down the details. One way to do that is asking questions, but that should just be a start. You have got to actually get your hands on things, and measure, and analyze.

That is really where all these great mods come from. Usually it is by accident. Someone with a little intuition sees something, and thinks to himself, "I think I could make that work here". After that, there is usually a lot of measuring to see if it is actually plausible, and only then does it turn into a design project.

Once it has been done once, then it can often be duplicated by the rest of us.

Elliot has a 4500 behind a Buick, so he would be a good person for you to get close to, if you want to go forward. While it isn't the same as a 3550, I'm sure that a lot of the knowledge he has already aquired would be helpful to you. Keep in mind, that unless he kept detailed notes, even that is just a guide. You would be amazed all the details that we put into things, that we have absolutely no recollection of. That means there are a lot of details you will have to work out for yourself. You seem to be pretty imaginative, which is a large part of the formula for success, so I believe it is within your capabilities.

Good luck on it, and by all means keep asking questions. Just be prepared to not always like the answers. Nothing wrong with having an ego. Most of my accomplishments in life have been because of an overinflated ego, but so were some of my worst moments. Just don't let it get the best of you.

[Logs0012]

Back to the T18 convert Elliott sent me a link where Greg Taylor believes he has gotten all the parts to make a T18 OD setup. I am going to buy the parts from him and try it. I have been speaking with Elliott about the NV series transmissions, they are WAY WAY WAY out of my price range. the cheapest I have been able to find one was $500 plus i would have to buy $272 bell housing adapter, have that machined and then buy new bell that would fit my engine.

On the point of my ego that is in build up for my hopeful career in The United States Air Force as an F-15C fighter pilot. Looks like I inflated a little to early and then let my emotions float me down the bad branch of the river.

Hear is the link for Greg Taylor's post on the T18 OD

http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?p=939079#post939079
Post #113

Thanks again and sorry for my pig headedness.
Lincoln Tucker

[TheJeeper]

Hey, if the T-18 idea doesn't pan out for you, here's another idea. I was thinking a little more last evening about using an AX-15, like "jepJ2000" mentioned earlier in this thread, and if I recall correctly, the AX-15 has the same bell housing to transmission pattern as a T-18. If the input shaft length is adequate, then that may be a viable option. That is, if you can live without power shifting and clutch dumps. ;)

Another issue would be what T-case to use. An adapter and a D20? A NP231 (YJ"s and TJ's)? NP242 (4:1 low, 'case offered in rubicon TJ's?

Just a thought.

[DAHoyle]

Back to the T18 convert Elliott sent me a link where Greg Taylor believes he has gotten all the parts to make a T18 OD setup.

Well, he doesn't describe what he has, so it's hard to be certain, but I think you will find that he is adding an OD to a T18, rather than actually converting a T18. Maybe the ranger I described, or possibly one of the planetary designs.

If he is actually converting a T18 to an OD tranny, I will be first in line to see how he pulled it off.

[TheJeeper]

Well, he doesn't describe what he has, so it's hard to be certain, but I think you will find that he is adding an OD to a T18, rather than actually converting a T18. Maybe the ranger I described, or possibly one of the planetary designs.

If he is actually converting a T18 to an OD tranny, I will be first in line to see how he pulled it off.

I'm second in line. I don't see how it's possible unless there are a lot of one off parts and a heck of a lot of ingenuity.

[Logs0012]

I'm going to be doing towing with it as well.

Otherwise I would use an AX-15

[Cecil14]

I believe Greg had purchased a Ranger OD unit for the T-18.


aa

[Logs0012]

I've got dibs on second in line if he pulls it off.

Then I will replicate it.

[jepj2000]

Well I just got emails back from a couple of places like High-Impact and Gear Vender about bolt overdrive units and its not looking good.

High-Impact said the Ranger unit is not compatable with the input shaft on the AMC T18, so they recomended a $3000+ NV4500 tranny setup.

Gear Vender doesnt make a unit that will bolt to the D20. They said "it makes the driveshaft too short in those old little Jeeps", which means they don't know what a Full Size Jeep is.:banghead:

I still have another email or two out so we will see if anything comes up with them.

Looks like I need to start refreshing myself on the NV4500, its been awhile since I've paid attention to them.

Also it will be interesting to see that T18 OD setup, I thnk that needs to be a seperate thread build for sure!

Rankin

[DAHoyle]

Well I just got emails back from a couple of places like High-Impact and Gear Vender about bolt overdrive units and its not looking good.

High-Impact said the Ranger unit is not compatable with the input shaft on the AMC T18, so they recomended a $3000+ NV4500 tranny setup.

Gear Vender doesnt make a unit that will bolt to the D20. They said "it makes the driveshaft too short in those old little Jeeps", which means they don't know what a Full Size Jeep is.:banghead:

I still have another email or two out so we will see if anything comes up with them.

Looks like I need to start refreshing myself on the NV4500, its been awhile since I've paid attention to them.

Also it will be interesting to see that T18 OD setup, I thnk that needs to be a seperate thread build for sure!

Rankin
You're missing the best art about the Ranger. Don't rule it out just yet.

Go with a short input T18, and the Ranger takes the place of the big spacer between the bellhousing, and the tranny. It Can be done, don't give up so easily. If you can bolt a NP435 ford to a 360, and I know that has been done many times, then you can bolt a Ranger to one. You just can't use the long input of the Jeep T18 behind it. That's why I said you could pick tranny. You can mix and match inputs and outputs on the Ranger.

No, it won't work with a long input T18, but the input can easily be changed. They should know that. personally, I would probably go with either a SM465, or a NP235, instead of the T18, just for the synchronized first gear.

[jepj2000]

You're missing the best art about the Ranger. Don't rule it out just yet.

Go with a short input T18, and the Ranger takes the place of the big spacer between the bellhousing, and the tranny. It Can be done, don't give up so easily. If you can bolt a NP435 ford to a 360, and I know that has been done many times, then you can bolt a Ranger to one. You just can't use the long input of the Jeep T18 behind it. That's why I said you could pick tranny. You can mix and match inputs and outputs on the Ranger.

No, it won't work with a long input T18, but the input can easily be changed. They should know that. personally, I would probably go with either a SM465, or a NP235, instead of the T18, just for the synchronized first gear.

Yeah great point:thumbsup:, a friend of mine and I swapped a NP435 into his '77 CJ-7 behind his 304. It's a really great tranny, and have thought about using it anyway before I wanted to use an OD.

You would think High-Impact would have thought of that, but I guess they like trying to sell their high dollar combos 1st. I'll email them back with that combo and see what they have to say about that.

Thanks,
Rankin

[Cecil14]

Like DAHoyle said, I want to say Greg went with a Ford T-18 (short input) and found a used Ranger to take the place of the spacer. At that point it's just a matter of finding a Ford patterned AMC bellhousing (plenty of them around) and you've got the setup. IIRC you can shift the Ranger on the fly, too...essentially giving you an 8 speed trans. ;)


aa

[DAHoyle]

Like DAHoyle said, I want to say Greg went with a Ford T-18 (short input) and found a used Ranger to take the place of the spacer. At that point it's just a matter of finding a Ford patterned AMC bellhousing (plenty of them around) and you've got the setup. IIRC you can shift the Ranger on the fly, too...essentially giving you an 8 speed trans. ;)


aa

Yeah, the new rangers are synchronized. I think they actually use a synccronizer from a T18. I'm just going off of memory on that, so I could be wrong, but I know they are synched.

Take a look over at Advanced Adapters, rather than Hi Impact. They are the ones who actually make them now, and should be able to point you in the right direction.

http://advanceadapters.com/category/28/Ranger+Torque+Splitter+Overdrives+%26+Underdrives. html

I was originally going to use one on my Cummins, but the design evolved past that.

[TheJeeper]

IIRC you can shift the Ranger on the fly, too...essentially giving you an 8 speed trans. ;)

Yep, it's actually classified as a gear splitter.

[jeepdreamer]

Hey Hoyle, I was wondering where in Colorado your from? When i get stationed at carson i'd really like to see the cummins powered beasty!

[Logs0012]

I did a little research on the Ranger unit, I've seen stuff where it is essentially worthless. Guy were saying that it didn't shift very good at all.

But from the sound of it its love it or hate it situation.

[Long&Low]

Not sure how a 6 would fit in with his stated goal of "the reason i want the OD so bad is because I hate to be passed PERIOD"

What we need to do is start a new thread about how that is a bad sentiment from anyone, but how it is a really bad sentiment coming form a teenager with a 5000 lb weapon at his disposal. He is not interested in reason or common sense, as has been displayed by his attitude about the advice he has been given.

Part of my reasoning was his previous need for speed....Sometimes by leading a horse to water, your hidden goal of getting him out of his stall in the first place gets met....

Anyways, it'd be interesting to see what comes of this a T18 without a granny gear and an OD 4th would be an interesting result.

[TheJeeper]

I did a little research on the Ranger unit, I've seen stuff where it is essentially worthless. Guy were saying that it didn't shift very good at all.

But from the sound of it its love it or hate it situation.

Do you have enough of a budget for the Ranger O/D unit?

And, how much is this modified T-18 setup going to cost?

[DAHoyle]

Anyways, it'd be interesting to see what comes of this a T18 without a granny gear and an OD 4th would be an interesting result.

It would be interesting, but I don't see it happening. You get exactly the same result with the close ratio T18 and taller gears, as I mentioned earlier, but that logic just flew right past Lincoln. He's starting to come around tho.

[TheJeeper]

It would be interesting, but I don't see it happening. You get exactly the same result with the close ratio T18 and taller gears, as I mentioned earlier, but that logic just flew right past Lincoln. He's starting to come around tho.

There is one thing you lose with taller axle gears, though, and that is crawl ratio. Unless you swap T-case's for a lower reduction, you'll lose a good bit by the time you compensate for lack of an ovrdrive. If he's not an avid 'wheeler then it's alright. But if he does like having around 55:1 in low, then he needs the O/D.

[Logs0012]

Dan: It kind of runs in my family. Sadly both my parents are thick skulled so your end result is a very thick skulled person.

Jeeper: My budget defiantly won't accommodate a ranger unit. I'm not exactly sure on how much my dream is going to cost. I need to actually get my hands on a T18 and get a look inside. Dan's exploded view of it shows main components but I can't get the nitty gritty details and measurements I need to start making this come true.

Dan again: I thought about changing the ring and pinion in the rear axel. When i did the research and found a calculator (really cool sight, you can choose every variable you can think of.) for the RPM's I was looking to get at 60 I would need a 3.54 ring and pinion and for a tow rig that doesn't give me as much power as I would like to have.

So begins my quest for and overdrive transmission. :mad:

Hear is the link for the calculator (its really cool): http://manoian.net/jeep/gear_ratio_calculator.html

[TheJeeper]

Dan: It kind of runs in my family. Sadly both my parents are thick skulled so your end result is a very thick skulled person.

Jeeper: My budget defiantly won't accommodate a ranger unit. I'm not exactly sure on how much my dream is going to cost. I need to actually get my hands on a T18 and get a look inside. Dan's exploded view of it shows main components but I can't get the nitty gritty details and measurements I need to start making this come true.

Dan again: I thought about changing the ring and pinion in the rear axel. When i did the research and found a calculator (really cool sight, you can choose every variable you can think of.) for the RPM's I was looking to get at 60 I would need a 3.54 ring and pinion and for a tow rig that doesn't give me as much power as I would like to have.

So begins my quest for and overdrive transmission. :mad:

Hear is the link for the calculator (its really cool): http://manoian.net/jeep/gear_ratio_calculator.html

Here is a better (IMO) calculator, http://www.grimmjeeper.com/gears.html

The cheapest and viable option is to convert to a D18 and Warn O/D, and have an extra for parts. If you think you can live with the design flaws.

[Logs0012]

Thats the problem, I don't want to be driving down the road and have an "O S***" moment without spare parts, on the side of the highway.

On the subject of the Calculator, I like that one because it has all the numbers for you, you don't have to put them in when some might have modified your Jeep like the PO of mine did, I'm finding bad restorations everywhere.:mad::mad::mad:

[TheJeeper]

Thats the problem, I don't want to be driving down the road and have an "O S***" moment without spare parts, on the side of the highway.

On the subject of the Calculator, I like that one because it has all the numbers for you, you don't have to put them in when some might have modified your Jeep like the PO of mine did, I'm finding bad restorations everywhere.:mad::mad::mad:

Ah. Well, I'll just run mine "'till she blows" as they say. I don't really think I will have any issues but you never can tell. But as I said, if it does "blow" I'll just swap the innards out of one of the two extras I have lying around.

[Logs0012]

Unless you are going to carry the spare parts with you BE CAREFUL, thats the only thing that is keeping me from the Warn OD, I'm going to be doing alot of heavy pulling through the hills of KY. If I wasn't going to be towing I would have switched out the ring and pinion.

[TheJeeper]

Unless you are going to carry the spare parts with you BE CAREFUL, thats the only thing that is keeping me from the Warn OD, I'm going to be doing alot of heavy pulling through the hills of KY. If I wasn't going to be towing I would have switched out the ring and pinion.

I'll be towing anything up to a '715 with a trailer. But I think it's up to the challenge. Here's a link for a lot of info about the 'case. http://www.4wheeloffroad.com/techarticles/transfer_case_dana_spicer_18/index.html

[JeepinPete]

My first car was a '52 M38A1. Think CJ5 before there was such an animal. Anyway, it had a T90, D18, and I added a Warn OD. Ran it with a Ford 289. I ended up burning up one of the bearings/bushings (can't remember which now, it was 20 years ago) in the OD due to oil starvation. You have to be religious in maintaining the oil level in the D18. And in my experience, keeping a D18 from leaking is near impossible.

As for the strength of the D18, I doubt you will have any problems. Certainly nothing catastrophic. When the rollers on the intermediate shaft start to get worn, you will hear it, so there is plenty of warning. As for the OD, you shouldn't be using it when towing anyhow, so it's strength also isn't an issue.

[DAHoyle]

There is one thing you lose with taller axle gears, though, and that is crawl ratio. Unless you swap T-case's for a lower reduction, you'll lose a good bit by the time you compensate for lack of an ovrdrive. If he's not an avid 'wheeler then it's alright. But if he does like having around 55:1 in low, then he needs the O/D.
Sorry, I have to respectfully disagree. It's all about the total package. If you give up crawl rato at the tranny, or the axle gearing, it is gone. His plan was to do away with the Granny, so he does away with the crawl. I said to go with the close ratio, because the 1'st (4:1) gear is lower than the second gear (3:1) of the Granny version, which in his plan becomes the low gear.

My way, you can raise the axle gearing 10%, and still have a lower crawl.

It isn't the best idea in the world, but it is better than going from a 6.32:1 to a 3.09:1. That little change there cuts your crawl ratio in half.

As I said, it isn't the best option out there, just better than trying to regear a T-18, even if you made the assumption that it could be done economicaly.

The best bet, and in fact the only one is to look for an economical tranny swap, or the Ranger. There is no way to buy a T18, tear it apart and redesign it, and come out cheaper than a salvage transmission. I don't like being so negative, but I am basing all this on reality. The entire cluster gear would have to be re-manufactured, as well as all the miscelaneous parts.

Again, as I have been trying get thru his "thick skull" (using his words) If you do away with the granny gear, and use a 3.09 as a 1st gear. How does that figure into your intent to use it as a tow rig?

There is way too much posturing here, and to way too many trips into the surreal. If he wants an OD, he has 2 choices. One is an OD transmission, and the other is an add-on OD box such as the Ranger, or the Saturn.

The obvious cheap solution to me is to just go with a wide ratio 4 speed such as a T-18, NP435, or most likely the easiest behind the Buick, an SM465. That will give him lots of grany gear , so it will allow him to swap in some taller gears. If he says he has run the numbers on the calculator, and 3.54, s would get him the RPM he wants, at cruising speed, then that is what to swap in.

My '78 has 3.54 gears, and 35" mudders, and I almost never resort to granny except off road, so I have plenty of gear left in reserve if I want to get a load moving. If 3.54 gears with a 1:1 top gear gets him where he wants to be, then all he needs to do is swap them in.


Lincoln, If you buy a T18, then do not take it apart. I am going to say this one final time. You can not turn it into an OD transmission. If you can not understand the detail drawing, then what in the name of God makes you think you can redesign it. If you can't afford any of the other options, can you really afford to throw money away on something foolish. It will just set you that much farther away from your goals. Even if you managed to pull it off, which you can't, you end up with a 3.09: granny gear in a "Tow Rig".

This topic has drifted so far into the absurd that I am going to step out of it. It should be a pretty entertaining read tho.

[Logs0012]

Dan: My first post on this topic should have been if anybody has 3.54's in the rear axle. Now I feel stupid because I discounted that solution.

You said that you don't have any problems getting a load moving with your 3.54's?

[TheJeeper]

Sorry, I have to respectfully disagree. It's all about the total package. If you give up crawl rato at the tranny, or the axle gearing, it is gone. His plan was to do away with the Granny, so he does away with the crawl. I said to go with the close ratio, because the 1'st (4:1) gear is lower than the second gear (3:1) of the Granny version, which in his plan becomes the low gear.

My way, you can raise the axle gearing 10%, and still have a lower crawl.

It isn't the best idea in the world, but it is better than going from a 6.32:1 to a 3.09:1. That little change there cuts your crawl ratio in half.

As I said, it isn't the best option out there, just better than trying to regear a T-18, even if you made the assumption that it could be done economicaly.

The best bet, and in fact the only one is to look for an economical tranny swap, or the Ranger. There is no way to buy a T18, tear it apart and redesign it, and come out cheaper than a salvage transmission. I don't like being so negative, but I am basing all this on reality. The entire cluster gear would have to be re-manufactured, as well as all the miscelaneous parts.

Again, as I have been trying get thru his "thick skull" (using his words) If you do away with the granny gear, and use a 3.09 as a 1st gear. How does that figure into your intent to use it as a tow rig?

There is way too much posturing here, and to way too many trips into the surreal. If he wants an OD, he has 2 choices. One is an OD transmission, and the other is an add-on OD box such as the Ranger, or the Saturn.

The obvious cheap solution to me is to just go with a wide ratio 4 speed such as a T-18, NP435, or most likely the easiest behind the Buick, an SM465. That will give him lots of grany gear , so it will allow him to swap in some taller gears. If he says he has run the numbers on the calculator, and 3.54, s would get him the RPM he wants, at cruising speed, then that is what to swap in.

My '78 has 3.54 gears, and 35" mudders, and I almost never resort to granny except off road, so I have plenty of gear left in reserve if I want to get a load moving. If 3.54 gears with a 1:1 top gear gets him where he wants to be, then all he needs to do is swap them in.


Lincoln, If you buy a T18, then do not take it apart. I am going to say this one final time. You can not turn it into an OD transmission. If you can not understand the detail drawing, then what in the name of God makes you think you can redesign it. If you can't afford any of the other options, can you really afford to throw money away on something foolish. It will just set you that much farther away from your goals. Even if you managed to pull it off, which you can't, you end up with a 3.09: granny gear in a "Tow Rig".

This topic has drifted so far into the absurd that I am going to step out of it. It should be a pretty entertaining read tho.

Sorry Hoyle, I wasn't paying enough attention to what he was going to do, Almost 80 replies is hard to keep up with.

Lincoln: I agree with Hoyle about the T-18 over drive build. You only have two options: Saturn, and Ranger.

[Logs0012]

I need to start looking around the local junkyards for a ranger unit.

What's the rangers full name?

[Billygoat]

Till recently I had 3:53 in my CJ8 with a 360 and 32x11.50 tires.
I had 4500 lb of scrap on my trailer and had very little trouble until I hit the brakes :eek: (not trailer brakes by the way - yes I stayed on back roads to keep it mostly just my neck I was risking).

That is back when I ran a T5 and a 600cfm eldelbrock, with the secondary linkage removed, I did wish I had it hooked up on a couple big hills, but beyond that not a problem. Pulled a couple of 1 ton loads with it after the Nv3550 and TBI went it. 4th gear pulled no problem.
I know you base rig is heavier and not sure what tires you are running (need to go back thru and see if you said)
**edit**
duh - right in your sig 33's - so extreamly close rpm's depending on your true size

[TheJeeper]

I need to start looking around the local junkyards for a ranger unit.

What's the rangers full name?

"Ranger torque splitter".

[Logs0012]

Thanks Jeeper. Don't want to be calling around just saying " need a ranger unit" I would wind up with a Ford ranger transmission.

What were they originally on?

[TheJeeper]

Thanks Jeeper. Don't want to be calling around just saying " need a ranger unit" I would wind up with a Ford ranger transmission.

What were they originally on?

I didn't know they were offered from the factory on anything. I thought they were just aftermarket?

[jepj2000]

Advanced Adapters is currently producing them. They make them for GM, Ford and Toyota it looks like. They're made in either an OD or UD, so watch out for that.

I have no idea if they were ever originally installed on any vehicles from the factory, so junkyards may be a hard place to find them, probably need to look on ebay and CL. Don't expect this swap to be on any kinda cheap budget because these things are like $1500 new and you're also looking at swapping trannies too. I would just start googling everything you can about the Ranger unit and figure out what is the best and cheapest way to accomplish your goals.

Rankin

[pineymike]

Sorry, I have to respectfully disagree.

This topic has drifted so far into the absurd that I am going to step out of it. It should be a pretty entertaining read tho. Better than T.V.!!! Thanks guys very entertaining while also informative,just what I was looking for:thumbsup: