Will this NP208 work in my GW?

[andy's 86 GW]

I'd like to first thank all those who replied to my "transfer case woes" post. I appreciate the support.

I found a 208 that was bolted to a t-176, 4 speed manual tranny on an 80s Chero that I can probably get for $150 or so. Will this 208 work on an 86 GW. Are there even different kinds of 208s out there? I know the rear output location can be different, but other than that does it matter?

Also, I'm taking apart my 228 to see what damage I've done, all bolts are off, how do I crack this egg? Can you tell this is my first time? And what is up with the screw/bolt on the top that case that I've already stripped trying to get off? What size is that darn thing? Metric? :confused:

Thanks, Andy

[Bob N]

Clark Griswald could probably answer this one better, but oh well, here goes....
The NP208 should bolt up in place of the 228. The front driveshaft will bolt right up, but the 208 doesn't have the 228's center diff, so it uses a longer rear driveshaft. You will need to find a rear driveshaft from another Waggie with a 208. You can use your existing shifter but it will now have 4 positions - 4LO, Neutral, 4HI and 2HI. You will want to install locking hubs , but you could let that slide for awhile if you don't mind everything turning when you drive. That's about all I can think of -hope it helps.

[Snakeyes_Tx]

Yep.. I wrote a tech article here about it. I was the first one here to do it actually. Pure bolt-on. Lengthen the rear driveshaft 5.5 inches and you're good to go.

[andy's 86 GW]

Thanks for the info guys.

So as long as the 208 came from a Jeep I don't have to worry about which side the drop is on in the rear? And it doesn't matter that the t176 was a manual? Sorry, just confirming.

[Snakeyes_Tx]

All 208's in Jeeps are the 208AM model. All have the same input spline count, and all have the same axle output on the driver's side in the front and centered in the rear. Should be the best and easiest swap you'll ever do.

It's the SINGLE MOST recommended upgrade I can suggest to you on an 86 FSJ. Also, throw away the entire wiring harness for the factory fog lights. They cause engine compartment fires!!!

[andy's 86 GW]

Thanks Snakeyes_Tx.

So how much would I expect to pay someone to extend my rear driveshaft? Who does it? any old machine shop?

[scotty]

the t176 also uses the 23 spline input.actually,all jeep new process cases use the 23 splie input,regardless of transmission,with the exception of the 80 and up j20 t18/208. that one uses a 31 spline input.

you might try and dig up a too long shaft. if your 208 comes from a wag with the same engine,you can use its d shaft. if it comes from a j truck,it will be too long.

it is cheaper to shorten than to lengthen,so if you can come up with a longer one it may save you some $$$. it should cost you $70 up to maybe $120 to have one lenghtened,and no more than $30 to have one shortened. add about $30-$50 if you have 2 new u joints installed at the same time.

there are specialty shops to do driveshaft work. here we have "american driveline" and "dayton clutch and joint" youve prolly got somethin similar in your area.

[andy's 86 GW]

Thakns again all!

I'll keep ya' posted.