Adapting the

GM 4L80-E Transmission

to the

Jeep Models 207, 231, 242, 249 & 241OR Transfer Cases

Novak's 4L80E transmission to the Jeep New Process (or New Venture) transfer cases conversion makes for one of the strongest geartrains possible for both on-road and off-road, and has become an increasingly popular transmission to transfer case combination.

Product & Features

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Block_4L81-BE



The Adapter

The Novak 4L80 to Jeep transfer cases adapter is compact at only 3.0" long for a combined transmission and adapter length of 29-1/4" (equivalent to a ~22-5/8" manual transmission). The adapter itself is machined of a 6061 billet aluminum alloy, featuring thick flanges and a heavy cross-section.

 

Transfer Case Clocking & Rotation Options 

Our adapter is drilled for multiple clocking locations from near-factory (20 degrees down) to near-flat (3 degrees down). However, pan clearances and front axle width may inhibit the flatter options.

Rear Mount Provision 

This transfer case adapter's design features a modular mounting and support system and mounting base, ready to accept our industry standard urethane isolator mount, available for purchase below.

Contents

Billet adapter housing, transfer case input or transmission output depending on kit selection, seal spacer, seal, transfer case to adapter gasket, transmission to adapter sealing ring, fastening hardware, steel mounting base, and instructions.

Applications & Compatibility

4l80e_transmission_drivers_sideTransmissions

All versions and years of the 4L80E can be adapted to the NP (New Process) transfer cases. Both the 2WD and 4WD versions work equally well with the correct adapter option. 

Output Shaft Speed Sensor

1991 - 1996 4L80E's should feature a speed sensor at the driver's side rear portion of the case (see image, below), whether they are 2wd or 4wd applications. 1997 and later 4wd applications often omit the rear sensor as this data is available from the transfer case output shaft in factory applications. This adaptation requires that this sensor and its internal reluctor ring be installed by a transmission building professional for proper operation.

Option I: Transmission Output Shaft Version

The 4L81-A adapter is compatible with all versions of the 4L80E. If you have a 2wd 4L80E, a 4wd 4L80E that is undergoing a rebuild anyway, are unsure what 4L80E you have (or will have at the time of the conversion), are missing the rear speed sensor, or your transfer case was just rebuilt (doesn’t leak) and you’d rather not open it back up then the 4L81-A kit is your best choice. The new 23 spline 4L80E output shaft is machined from stock material through an extensive process ensuring maximum strength and a precise fit. The new Novak shaft splines directly into the OEM style input shaft of a 23 spline transfer case. The 241OR Rubicon must use the 23 spline output version. This requires disassembly of the transmission, and we recommend the services of a transmission professional.

The basic installation is a 2-2.5 hour bench job and will include at least simple gasket and seal replacements. Be sure that if your transmission is missing the output speed sensor it is added at this time. See below for the correct parts. This is a good time for a more thorough master rebuild and update of the Hydra-Matic. Many consider one of our complete Novak remanufactured and upgraded transmission packages. The advantage of a superior, professionally built transmission, tested and ready to bolt in delivered to you is definitely worthy of consideration. 

The E & L designate early or late as described below. Please choose the correct version if using an output shaft replacement adapter:

Early vs Late 4L80E Oiling

In about 1997, GM changed the way the rear bushing is oiled in the 4L80E transmission. The shafts are not interchangeable and you will need to identify for sure which version you need.

  • The first design has two lube holes in the sides of the case bushing journal. Lube flows through these feeding the output shaft and forward to the planets.
  • The second design does not have the lube holes instead has a tube feeding oil from the valve body. 

4l80e_ouput_lube_detail

Option II: Transfer Case Input Shaft Version 

One 4wd version of the 4L80E is ready to bolt up to our 4L81B adapter kit. Disassembly of the transmission is unnecessary as the 32 spline 4wd style output shaft (which protrudes about 3" from the rear face of the 4L80E transmission main case) is correct for this kit version. Disassembly of the transfer case is necessary to install a new matching 32 spline NP input gear.

The input gear installation is a 2-3 hour bench job and usually includes either a simple gasket and seal replacement or preferably a full rebuild of a tired transfer case, especially a chain replacement. It is not requisite that you rebuild your transfer case to successfully complete the conversion. However, it is certainly worth consideration especially if your transfer case leaks or has many years of service. You will be going all the way into the front of the transfer case to install in the input gear. Our superior quality New Process master rebuild kits along with a top quality chain are the perfect solution for the job and are available below.

Early vs Late Input Gear Style

231_input_long_wide231_input_long_narrow 

The NP/NVG input gears are divided early and late about 1993-1994. However there are no guarantees that things are original or that the change was made as a clean break 93 down and 94 up. If in question, the input bearing width on these models is a good indicator. “E” Early uses a 24mm wide bearing and “L” late is 16mm wide. The photos above show the differences in width of the bearing location and the stepped shoulder between the bearing and the gear. The 241JK transfer case is a special case requiring special gears. It is a late cut with additional machining required.

NP & NVG Transfer Cases 

ss231_seal_spacer

New Process input gears come in varying spline counts and lengths. Whichever you have, we've got you covered. A seal spacer sleeve is included and pre-installed in your Novak adapter in the event your transfer case has a short input gear.

The adapter kit is designed for compatibility with the Jeep NP207, NP231, NP242, NP249, NP241 & NP241OR "RockTrac" transfer cases. Below is a summary of spline counts and lengths usually encountered.

  • NP 231 - The NP231 may have 21 or 23 splines and a long or short style input gear
  • NP 242 - The Jeep version NP242 may have 21 splines for the 1987-1990 versions. When connected to the 4.0L HO engine (1991- ) the 242 will have 23 splines as will the Dodge and later V8 Grand Cherokee, AMG versions are 32 splines long
  • 249 - The NP249 always has 23 splines, but may have a long or short style input gear
  • 241OR - The RockTrac will always have a 23 spline, short style input gear. Its gear is unique and not interchangeable with any of the other versions due to the lower 4:1 ratio
  • NP207 - The NP207 may have 21 or 23 splines. Many versions feature extra-long input gears whose stick-out lengths (as measured from the front edge of the input gear to the transfer case front mounting face) is longer than 2.2". These will require shortening with a cut-off saw and/or lathe and finished with edge breaking chamfers

Jeeps

Because this is a longer transmission, it is not compatible with most short wheelbase Jeeps if they have much lift, due to driveshaft angles. CJ7's may be feasible if the lift is mild. Because these Jeeps can be relatively light and the GM 4L60E transmission can be very strong, it will usually be a more appropriate choice over the 4L80. 

However, CJ8 Scrambler Jeeps, other longer Jeeps (especially the full sized trucks and Wagoneers) are ideal candidates if punishing transmission duty is a prime consideration.

Engines

Any engine that can be made to work with the 4L80E will work with this adapter. All of the above mentioned native engines along with others that can be adapted via a front adapter such as our 437 series kits open up numerous possibilities. Remember that the 4L80E is electronically controlled so if going away from a native engine, a separate controller will be required.

Related Products

Transmission Rear Mount

This transfer case adapter's design has a structural base for an industry standard urethane isolator mount, available for purchase. This is our preferred rear mount unit. Our kits are designed for it, and its usage is essential to protect powertrain components from the flex and movement typical of any automobile, but especially Jeeps.

Whether you are assembling onto a stock crossmember/skidplate or if you are setting up a high-clearance skid plate, you will find it to be a clean and simple process.

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4L80E rear speed sensor retrofit kit

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Transmission Tunnel Cover

Because the transmission and transfer case shifters are often in a different location than factory in these Jeeps, this new transmission tunnel cover gives the installer a clean slate. There are no screw holes nor transmission & transfer case shifter holes, allowing the installer to drill and cut them as necessary. An easy way to get a perfect fit is to use the old cover as a template, making cuts as necessary, then overlay on the new aluminum piece for perfect holes.

The finish is natural brushed aluminum, which looks pretty terrific, but it can easily be primed and painted to suit, if desired.

This tunnel cover is compatible only with 1976-1986 CJ Jeeps.

Block_TransTunnelCover

New Process Transfer Case Shifter Options 

Often the shifters are linked to your old transmission, body, or both. As things move or even just to have a better setup these shifter solutions prove invaluable and extremely popular.

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New Process Rebuild Kits 

The New Process (or later New Venture Gear) transfer cases are unusually strong for their mass and size. As long as your chain isn’t stretched and you keep up with fluid levels they will take a surprising amount of power and abuse. Like anything else, time and use takes its toll and these rebuild kits consist of the best available components including top quality chains and bearings. The rebuild process is not overly difficult, and if you are there anyway to put in an input gear, our advice is to rebuild, especially considering that the chains can stretch with use.

The 231 kits are divided early and late about 1993-1994. However there are no guarantees that things are original or that the change was made as a clean break 93 down and 94 up. If in question, the input bearing width on these models is a good indicator. Early uses a 24mm wide bearing and late is 16mm wide.

Block_231MR-1


The Rubicon 241OR rebuild kit is available here.


The 242 kits are a little more pragmatic with chain use. Most of the light Jeep models are the same but there are some variations in those that used a V8 as well as the Liberty and AMG versions. These kits are offered as rebuild components and the chains separately. The same guidance applies to year breaks as the 231 for the rebuild kits. Chains are model and style specific.

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Chains for the 242 had 2 pitch sizes, 2 joint styles and 2 widths and all in different combinations. 

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Chain Style


Use the above illustration in the event you are not certain about the provenance of your NP242 transfer case chain joint type.
 

This is the most common chain used in the XJ and other light duty Jeeps.


The WJ Grand Cherokee and Dodge V8 applications commonly used this wider chain.


The Liberty is a unique animal with this version and rebuild kits vary as well.


Some Jeep XJ & ZJ (Europe), NP242ECE models used this chain.


The H1 AMG HMMWV, Humvee, Hummer version is 1-1/4” wide and the coarse pitch.


23 Spline Input Gears

If you have a 21 spline input transfer case, our recommendation is to replace the input gear with a 23 spline version. The NP/NVG input gears are divided early and late about 1993-1994. However there are no guarantees that the transfer case is original or that the gear change was made as a clean break 93 down and 94 up. If in question, the input bearing width on these models is a good indicator. “E” Early uses a 24mm wide bearing and “L” late is 16mm wide. The photos show the differences in width of the bearing location and the stepped shoulder between the bearing and the gear. 23 spline input gears are available to replace the anemic 21 spline found in all too many applications. Please select the appropriate gear below.

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Transmission Cooling

Transmission Cooling is critical to the life of all automatic transmissions. Conventional in the radiator tank coolers are simply not adequate for long life on a Jeep’s transmission. Here are the products we recommend for best performance and ease of installation.

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Transmission Controller 4L80E

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Installation Requirements

Tools

Tools required will vary depending on which kit is selected. The automatic transmission takes more specialized tools, knowledge, gaskets, seals, snap ring pliers, etc. The New Process transfer case requires hand tools, large snap ring pliers, and RTV to reseal. Rebuilds are a little more involved, but not by much.

Placement 

Engine placement in these applications is an effort in compromise to find the best position overall as a package. Generally the engine will be about 1” or even more towards the left, (driver’s side in the USA) away from the front differential in a CJ application. This gives the best balance of weight, and more importantly clearance, for the driveshaft going to the front axle. Your tight spots will be steering to exhaust on the left (hold that as tight as you can) and clearance for the front driveshaft on the right. On a driver’s side drop transfer case, usually the later Jeeps, things often get a little easier as steering and front driveshaft are pushing you the same direction. Fore and aft position will vary with the Jeep model and engine.

Have a CJ5 and Gen I with a rear distributor? You’ll be better off a little forward for more rear driveshaft length and clearance for that HEI. If you are in a longer Jeep and using an LS engine with no distributor, you’ll have more fan clearance and better balance if you hold it to the rear. Usually for ground clearance tuck things up nicely for height to avoid damage to oil pans and other life giving parts in the Jeep. On later Jeeps with a Driver’s side drop transfer case and front differential, things are a little easier as the steering and offset are both pushing the drivetrain to the passenger’s side. Again, that 1 to 1-1/2” dimension is usually where you want to be. Common sense and taking a step back to look at things overall goes a long way.

Clocking Information & Driveshaft to Pan Clearance

Our adapter is drilled for multiple clocking locations and driver’s side drop transfer cases usually clear nicely in most all applications.

Engines & Engine Mounting

mmtj-g3If converting to a V8 in conjunction with this upgrade, aftermarket engine mounts are available to ease its installation. Because of the broad spectrum of engines and vehicle combinations used with this adapter, it would be difficult to list them all here. Whatever your application, Novak likely has the perfect solution. From a 225 Buick V6 in a CJ2A to an LS3 in your JK, we’ve got you covered. 

Novak's engine mounts, featuring excellent vibration dampening, superior strength, and impressive adjustability - adjustable even after the engine is installed. The design, strength, and affordability of our mounts are second to none.

Engine Placement Drivers Drop

Engine placement in these applications is an effort in compromise to find the best position overall as a package. Generally the engine will be about 1” or even more towards the right, (passengers’s side in the USA) away from the front differential in a Wrangler or similar application. This gives the best balance of weight (and more importantly clearance) for the driveshaft going to the front axle. Clearance is usually quite good in these applications; both the steering and front driveshaft push things towards the right. Fore and aft position will vary with the Jeep model and engine. Have a CJ5 and Gen I with a rear distributor? You’ll be better off a little forward for more rear driveshaft length and clearance for that HEI. If you are in a longer Jeep and using an LS engine with no distributor, you’ll have more fan clearance and better balance if you hold it to the rear. Usually for ground clearance tuck things up nicely for height to avoid damage to oil pans and other life giving parts in the Jeep. Common sense and taking a step back to look at things overall goes a long way.

Driveshafts

Driveshaft length changes are often required. Most conversions to these transmissions will require that the rear driveshaft be modified to be shorter and front driveshaft longer.

Some installers, concerned about the expense of new or modified driveshafts, attempt to let the existing driveshafts dictate engine, transmission and transfer case location, often to the detriment of the project. Our recommendation is to prioritize the correct position of drivetrain components over saving a few dollars which is usually regretted in the long run with compromised positioning.

Driveshaft modifications and rebalancing can be affordable when performed by driveline, RV or tractor implement specialists. New driveshafts are an option, but not necessarily a requirement in regards to the actual successful conversion if your existing driveshafts are in good condition.

Jeeps that require extensive travel or specialty-built driveshafts have this option available through several fabricators across the nation. These are normally specified after placement of the new transmission and measured at vehicle ride height. As the rear driveline gets shorter, it is often advantageous to us a Double Cardan or “CV style” rear shaft with the correct geometry at the axle to minimize vibrations and possible binding. 

Axles

Use of factory axles is completely acceptable with this conversion. Axle upgrades are not necessary, but they may be chosen for reasons external to this transmission upgrade.

Also See