: cj5 T18 swap questions, already searched


michigander
06-16-2002, 02:56 PM
so here's my deal. I have a T18 from a FSJ with the 5" extension in the bellhousing. It is the 6.xx:1 gear ratio, and I am going to swap it into my CJ5.

I already have the Tcase figured out. I'm using the model 20 that came with it, so I don't need adaptors. I'm going to a CV shaft because of the lenth and I've already changed the yoke.

BUT.... I need help with bolting it to my AMC 360. I obviosly need to remove the 5" extension in the bellhousing and change the input shaft, but these are my questions.
1) What input shaft do I need? I need the shortest possible, but where can I get one? What else do I need to change in the T18?
2) Once I remove the 5' extension, can I use the original bellhousing or is it all one piece? I know a T150 or T176 bellhousing will bolt up, but could I use the original bellhousing, minus the extension?

thanks for the help guys.

CJ5-Man
06-16-2002, 03:26 PM
how long did you search for?

ford input shaft, its mentioned in just about every thread that comes up with "t18 swap"

original bellhousing will work, might have to drill 1 hole

michigander
06-16-2002, 03:32 PM
I heard this .... "then you simply unbolt the bellhousing and adapter, then swap in a FORD T18 input shaft and bearing retainer. "

I just wanted someone else to back it up. Why can't I swap in a CJ T18 input shaft?

CJ5-Man
06-16-2002, 04:50 PM
a cj input shaft will work, but if you can find a cj t18 input shaft why not use the whole cj t18?

michigander
06-16-2002, 04:53 PM
I have no idea... I'm just trying to get a feel for the parts I need. So the shaft is all I need? I will also replace the main bearings, but that comes without saying.

Thanks for your help.

RockJeep
06-16-2002, 05:01 PM
you need to find a stud to fit inside the bellhousing on the lower drivers side. needs a D shaped head because the clutch fork will hit if you use a nut and bolt. also you'll likely need to cut the clutch fork some for clearance. and you'll need t18 pilot bearing for a ford that's been turned down to fit in your crank. also the j10 shifter will likely hit your dash so it'll need to be bent to clear and the j10 dana 20 shift linkages are longer and likely will require some mild cutting of the floorboard for clearance. Also to install the new input your gonna have to loosen the output shaft to get the input out. when you do this make sure you torque the adapter plate bolts properly and use some good silicone. I learned the hard way of why you need to do this.
later
bob

Grandpa Jeep
06-17-2002, 09:14 AM
You also need an extended pilot bearing to work with the Ford shaft. AA sells them for $20. You can get a Ford input shaft from National drivetrain and probably a few other places. I found a used one at a local transmission shop.

michigander
06-18-2002, 07:26 PM
I found an input shaft and bearing retainer for a 76-79 CJ, so that is on the way. I am also using a T-150 bellhousing. Can I use a T-150 clutch plate and pilot bushing?

Slagburn
06-18-2002, 07:56 PM
If it fits like my Ford T-18 w/ T150 bell, you will definitely need a longer pilot bushing. Or cut up two Carquest specials, and make that work.