auto trans in cj-5

I have a 72 cj5 with a t150/d20 combo and have a th400/d300 combo i would like to install i know driveshaft angle and length is an issue any suggestions? its spung over has 36 inch swampers powered by a 304

 

Welcome, is there something wrong with your T-150/D20? If there isn’t, what is it your not liking about the combination? It sounds like you already know the draw backs of a 400/300 swap-in.

 

A TH350 or better yet a 999 would be a much better fit, but still awfully tight with a '5. If you are running an inline 6, expect to have no room for a driveshaft.+

 

Thanks for the input.The d20 has a poor low range as the 150 does as well.Need to convert trans linkage to clutch slave and master the stock binds up on trails and rocks.
Just weighing the options.

 

NP435/D300?

Probably the way I would go

 

Don't know if your transmission has been changed, but a '72 would have a Borg-Warner T-15 from the factory, not a Tremac T-150. Different transmission, different manufacturer. The T-15 uses the Jeep T-15 bell, and the T-150 uses the Ford-pattern bell, same as the T-176. Good to know if you decide to swap in an NP435 or T-18.

You're really picking a tough project to put the TH400 in a CJ-5. It can be done, but you'll end up with a very short driveshaft which probably won't be very reliable. The short driveshaft will also limit your rear axle travel. Doable, but not advisable.

I think the main question is - how much do you want an automatic?

<edit> A suggestion about the clutch linkage - the bellcrank works ok if it's adjusted well and in good condition. The clutch only binds when you really stuff the right front wheel (left front? been awhile) into the wheelwell and dangle the other wheel. I suppose it would be worse if you have some stiff lift springs and force the frame to flex more. If you experienced this problem ramping your Jeep, I don't think that's its a fair conclusion that you need to replace the linkage. You might consider refurbishing the bellcrank (a kit is availalble), checking your engine and transmission mounts, and replacing the stock ball-end linkage with heim joint linkage.

 

My CJ5 has a TH400. It seems to work ok except the shifter!? Yes the rear driveshaft is very short and the front is out of a Commando (2 piece). I don't worry about the rear axle travel as I am about a stock height. I plan on using the Jeep for driving in the snow + ice and possibly for plowing snow (automatics are better). Not much offroading in mind, Just light stuff-It would cost me too much breaking stuff all the time.So it can be done.
Josh