T176 to D18? Anybody done it?

So I am gathering parts for my '67 CJ-5- replacing the F-134 with a 229 Chevy V-6. Had considered an SM465 swap, but I don't need the deep low gear as my axles have 5.38's in them already. A guy down the road has a T176/D300 attached to a 250 Chevy I6 for sale (will separate the 250) so the bell housing will bolt up. I see AA has a kit to adapt the T176 to my D18, but haven't heard of anybody that has done it successfully. I want to keep the D18 as I need the PTO for the "Go for Digger" welder setup that the Jeep came with (PO/friend's condition of selling me the jeep). Anybody done it?

 

Not exactly the same but member Dummy did an NV3550 iirc to and 18 transfer case in his project "Hatari" CJ-6 featured in JP magazine years ago. Dummy is Christian Hazel who worked for the magazine at the time. Might get on their website and check out the project as it should be similar as far as adapting goes. Looking at the adapter kit it seems pretty straightforward. Other than that not really sure what you are after here.
Definitely not a mainstream/common adaption but I don't see any real issues with it except possibly length.

 

I had never heard of anybody having any experience with this swap. I was tempted to use my T-90 trans but with the Chevy adapter kit you have to change the cluster gear and therefore the trans ratios are faster. I liked the way it was geared with the F134. I looked into using a 3 or 4 speed Saginaw, but didn't think the external shift linkage would be a good idea in the woods...

 

External shifter is generally not an issue. Been running a wide ratio Saginaw 4 speed in the '59-5 since 1989. The only issue s are cutting the tub and making sure the mount and shifter clears the underseat fuel tank if so equipped.
I think if the length is ok the T-176 is a good option. Been considering something similar myself.

 

Novak also makes an adapter for this combo, and lists the OAL as 16.5" http://www.novak-adapt.com/catalog/adapters/transmission_to_transfer_case/kit_152.htm - get out your tape and measure what the length of what you have now is. Without moving the engine forward, your rear driveshaft lengths will need to be changed by the difference in length.

I expect rear driveshaft length would be the limiting issue. Since you are doing an engine swap at the same time, you have the opportunity to move the engine forward a few inches to make room for the longer transmission.

 

AA's adapter is only 1" thick, Novak's is 2" and about $150 more. Tcase has to stay in the same place for the PTO.

 

Pto shaft lengths are easily modified.

 

I would be hesitant with a 200 or 229 swap again because the engine guts are not common like the 4.3l. it is semi odd fire and 2 pc rear main. Most are in front of automatics and I don't believe it is internally balanced. 1st hand experience get a 87+ 4.3 with roller lifters tbi and don't have as much trouble with little surprises.

 

I'd call Novak and ask why the difference. Might be enlightening. Novak has a reputation for producing a quality part.

I hear that Herm has good prices on AA items. Typically you can get better prices on aftermarket items from a retailer, rather than buying direct. Companies typically won't discount from list, protecting their retailers.

 

I have had excellent service from Novak. They have responded to questions in a timely manner, are pleasant and are full of great information. The adapter I purchased from them was perfectly made and fully finished as well. When I had an issue with installation of my Sm420 that wasn't even their problem, they still helped me without hesitation.

 

But moving the belt driven welder that runs off the PTO isn't.

 

Good point. I'd suggest getting out your tape measure and take lots of careful measurements.