I finally started the "minor" project of installing a 1987 split case behind a SM420 into my FJ40 "mostly trail" rig. Why??? I want to get rid of my 3-speed case (which needs rebuilt), have an option for lower gearing, and be able to support my rear drivetrain from the BOTTOM via rubber transmission mount (GM, Jeep style).

I will post more interesting things here later

:flipoff2:

NEW UPDATED PICS

I guess you are using the Advance adapter to do this?
How long is it?
Butch

hey dude

i have to gear mine up soon.....

split cases look purtier!!

Here are some pics of the cross member support....

anotha

and anotha

This pic shows the clearance from tcase yoke to the SM420 housing.

Don't pay attention to my 4wheel linkage - yikes - had to test it.

The other side of the project was installing rear FJ60 lifted springs on my SU junk - to try to fit 37 MTR's baby.

Here is a side shot with Wrangler flares

I totally reworked the rear hanger. I did not want to reweld and bolt the hanger to the old tin foil. I fabbed a plate and used heavy duty aftermarket jeep spring hangers. It is a helluva lot easier to weld thick steel to thick steel.

anotha of the hanger

And (as previously posted), reworked the front fenders to fit the 37"s. I welded 1/2" rod to the edge and supports. It is plently stiff for holding beer cans and wrenchin but hopefully my tires will keep it off the rocks and trees ;)

anothu fender

Nice fenders...

What did you do to adapt the SM420 to the Split Case?

Looks like the split case does not hang down as far as the 3 speed case.

I like the look of the transfer and the fenders!

Originally posted by wngrog
What did you do to adapt the SM420 to the Split Case?

Looks like the split case does not hang down as far as the 3 speed case.

I like the look of the transfer and the fenders!

I used an AA aluminum "spud shaft" adapter. The adapter is essentially (2) pieces to make it work with the split case. I seems AA modified their standard SM420 adapter by adding a plate for the split case. If everything works out I am going to weld the two together to prevent the possibility of bolts coming loose. The adapter assembly is about 5" long.

Originally posted by KMAN


I used an AA aluminum "spud shaft" adapter. The adapter is essentially (2) pieces to make it work with the split case. I seems AA modified their standard SM420 adapter by adding a plate for the split case. If everything works out I am going to weld the two together to prevent the possibility of bolts coming loose. The adapter assembly is about 5" long. Man, that blue font is a bitch to read:eek: Thats a sweet set-up! Good work, man. Whats you final crawl ratio gonna be?

Originally posted by KMAN


The adapter assembly is about 5" long

I wonder why more people don't do this. The split case is MUCH better than the 3 speed case......

5" is worth it if you want to keep the Cruiser axles....

It has gotta be around the same overall length as the AA I have in Yeller, and the NV4500/AA/split case in Jim Alexander truck you drove........Both these rear driveshafts are plenty long.
Butch

With the rear FJ60 springs flipped:

Front driveshaft 30"
Rear driveshaft 28.5"

My front is long travel and will fit in the rear in a pinch.

My crawl is about 80:1 and if that doesn't work for my moderate and infrequent wheelin I could get to about 110:1 with the low gears....but the verdict is not out on these yet (strength?).

On my test drive the first thing I noticed is no WHINE. I thought the previous noise was my tranny...ends up the old SM420 is pretty damn quiet.

Now I need to get the damn thing finished for next weekend wheelin trip.

the whole thing looks pretty awesome!!

Nice work Karl! Can't wait to see it on the trail.

Hey Smythe.....
Time to punch out one of these AA type adapters....

I agree. I had to do some shade tree fabbin to mount this AA adapter...............