I have a '95 Wrangler Rio Grande. The 2.5L I-4 is getting extremely old so getting ready to do an engine/tranny swap. Understand I need the AX-15 to do most transitions but trying to get a little more detailed so I know what direction to go.
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Your engine choice will do more to dictate your transmission than anything else. If you stay with the 4 banger you can use either the ax-5 or the ax-15. If you go with a 4.0 or the like you will need at least the ax-15. If you are planning to go small block, well that's a whole nother can of worms.
I am trying to find a 4bt because I would love nothing more to own a diesel and if I could have one in my YJ I would be super tickled. I am really leaning more towards a carbed Chevy small block 350. I am extremely familiar with Ford's 302 but the 350 is too cheap and too easy to work on to beat. I figured I would go with a carb instead of FI thinkin it may be easier or cheaper, but maybe could get you guys opinions? I researched some on NOVAK's site last night and kinda have an idea what I need for motor mounts bell housing adapter and clutch components. If I understand correct I can use the AX-15 with my current transfer case with the 350 and NOVAK's adapters....my biggest questions are what all else will I need to make my components work with the 350 if there is anything, such as radiator, brake booster, etc. I have been searching the site for a few answers to my questions because I am sure this is an abused question. Thanks in advance
The AX-5 has a 21 spline output usually, and the AX-15 has a 23 spline. Might as well add a new t-case input or new t-case to the list. Not sure how well the AX-15 will hold up to the V-8. Maybe use the whole Chevy drive train, including the front axle, as the Chevy t-case will be passenger drop. And your Dana 35 will grenade with that power.
oh yeah I did read that, my plan was to hopefully find someone to trade me my engine, tranny, and t-case for an ax-15 and t-case and then i'd buy the motor outright....
I am fairly new to jeeps but I am in the middle of a OM617 and an AX-15 and T-case swap in my 88 YJ. I will be using all stock components for stage 1 build. I have read about countless others that use an ax-15 and all other stock components with a small block swap or a Ford 302 swap. If you plan on a mild engine and are not hard on it the stock stuff will last forever. If you plan to swap ina really built engine or really abuse your jeep then most stuff will have to be upgraded.
So this happens under normal non severe use? How easy is it to then change synchros in this trans? Would a NV3550 be any better? What manual trans would you go with?
Thats the trans I would put in if I had some money to do it. Basically the ax15 is notorious for not being the most reliable. I've read stories of where several months after rebuild they started losing the trans again
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