Dana 18 swap

BB · Post by BB » Thu Mar 21, 2019 7:22 pm

My question is I have a good 1955 cj5 Dana 18 transfer case that was rebuilt just before I got it. Is it possible to use it in my 52 m38 if I change the main shaft gear on the transmission to match the transfer case? Also what is the difference in the gearing of the earlier 26 tooth and later 29 tooth designs advantage/disadvantages, improvements? Thanks Brian B.

Post by **wesk** » Thu Mar 21, 2019 10:38 pm

The 18 is a very simple and effective unit when used with the light weight jeep and the small engines. The only real improvement over it's life span was the pre 1950 upgrade on shaft diameter of the intermediate shaft. There are aftermarket bearing upgrades available.

The ratios for the M38 thru early CJ3B 26 tooth gear WO PN A-10469 is Hi 1.00:1 and Lo 2.43:1.

The ratio for the late CJ3b and CJ5 29 tooth gear WO PN 809297 is Hi 1.00:1 and Lo 2.46:1.

BB · Post by BB » Fri Mar 22, 2019 1:40 pm

Wes where can I find information on bearing upgrades and vendors.
Thanks again.

OKCM38CDN · Post by **OKCM38CDN** » Fri Mar 22, 2019 3:18 pm

Your intermediate shaft and bearing size will depend on on the shaft in your case... the cases are machined / cast for the proper size shaft...

Once you find shaft size just order a rebuild kit for that size shaft.

I may be wrong but that is my understanding...

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:11 am

Search for info here on D18 transfer case rebuild.

There are several good sources of info, including Moses Ludel, Novak’s and a self published tranny and transfer case rebuild document, that for the life of me I can’t remember his name. Wes will chime in I’m sure.

Do not settle for any bearings except for US manufacture. Mainly because of quality, but also because you don’t have to. Also, there are some shafts that are out there that aren’t hardened properly.

If you stick with Midwest Military, Army Jeep Parts, Pete DeBella and Brent Mullins you should be able to find what you want but make sure you request US manufacture parts. Shop, as some prices are lower than others. I split my orders up, found what I needed and saved some money. In some cases new, old stock parts are available, but you will usually pay more for them.

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:14 am

Rick Stivers, of course...

http://willystech.com/wt/Model18TCase/M ... rCase.html