Adapting the
Chevrolet & GM Standard Shift Bellhousings
to the
Jeep CJ & FSJ Borg-Warner T14, T15 & T18 Transmissions
Jeep CJ Transmission Versions
This adapter assembly adapts GM bellhousings to the CJ Jeeps with the T14 three-speed transmission, T15 three-speed transmission and the T18 four-speed transmission.
- The Jeep T14 was standard equipment on six-cylinder (AMC 232 & 258 c.i.d) engines from 1972 - 1975.
- The Jeep T15 was standard equipment with the AMC V8 engines from 1972 - 1975.
- The Jeep T18 was the optional transmission found in both I6 & V8 CJ Jeeps from 1972 - 1975.
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Kaiser era Jeep CJ T14's from 1967 - 1971 (Buick V6) are not compatible with this kit.
For Jeep CJ T18's from 1976 - 1979, jump here.
Jeep FSJ Transmission Versions
This kit is also applicable to Full Size Jeeps ("FSJs", i.e.; Wagoneer, J-Truck, Cherokee), 1972 - 1979 with the T14, T15 and T18 transmissions.
- The Jeep T14 was standard equipment on six-cylinder (AMC 232 & 258 c.i.d) engines from 1972 - 1975.
- The Jeep T15 was standard equipment with the AMC V8 engines from 1972 - 1975.
- The Jeep T18 was the optional transmission found in both I6 & V8 FSJ Jeeps from 1972 - 1979.
The existing factory T18 cast iron front adapter plate (about 7/8" thick) will be used in conjunction with the new Novak adapter assembly. Jeep T18's using this adapter assembly will have an 8-1/4" transmission input shaft stickout length (measured from the pilot tip of the shaft to the front face of the T18's existing adapter plate).
Jeep T18's not fitting this description will require other versions of our assemblies.
The Adapter
This plate style adapter is cast and machined of a high-grade aluminum alloy, featuring an integrated precision machined bearing retainer. Included are the GM bellhousing locator / throwout sleeve, pilot bushing, seal and hardware.
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GM Bellhousings
GM bellhousings typically feature either a 4-11/16" rear face bore or a
5-1/8" rear face bore, the latter typically only from Chevy / GM trucks from 1968-1991. Our adapter versions are available for both. If you are uncertain of your bellhousing bore, choose the #1879R adapter assembly, as it features a press-on spacer ring that can be used or removed to cover either situation. The ring is easily returnable for credit if not used in the installer's application.
Installation
The adapter is easily and quickly installed onto these transmissions and no change of input gear or other transmission internals are typically required.
Clutch Release
Both factory mechanical and add-on hydraulic clutch release systems can be made fully compatible with this conversion. Individuals with mechanical releases should use Novak's #RAGM release fork.
Individuals wishing to upgrade to a hydraulic system can use Novak's #HCR3 hydraulic clutch retrofit assembly in conjunction with firewall and pedal changes as necessary.
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| Generation I through Generation III Chevy V8 engines are popular choices as are the Chevy V6s. The Buick V6 is also a good choice. Even Big Block engines are candidates for this swap, due to the enormous strength of the T18 transmission. |
Engines & Engine Mounting
Novak engine mounting system offers the best designs on the market for strength, ease and flexibility of installation. Whether you are installing a classic Small Block, a V6 or a Generation III powerplant, we've got you covered.
In any scenario, it is critical that the engine be installed (as the Jeep engines usually are) with an offset of 1" to 1-1/2" to the driver's side. Other engine mounts on the market - especially the bolt-in versions - do not take this into account and make other placement decisions for
the installer that do not take the full powertrain into account. Novak offers what we have found to be the most intelligent engine mounting system for Jeeps available, allowing the installer to make an easy and satisfying decision as to powertrain placement with the new engine, Borg Warner transmissions and Dana 20 transfer case all considered.
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| Novak's MM Series engine mounts, featuring excellent vibration dampening, superior strength and impressive adjustability - adjustable even after the engine is installed. The design and strength and affordability of our mounts are second to none. |
| Our RadLock radiators offer a highly efficient and extremely durable cooling solution for your GM conversion engine. |
Engine Cooling
For your GM engine in CJ applications, we will suggest the use of our RadLock high-performance conversion radiators, which are rugged, easy to install and are extremely efficient in cooling in even the most demanding environments.
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.
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| The classic Chevrolet bellhousing, with the four-bolt rear pattern. Buick, Olds, Pontiac and other bellhousings with the same rear face are equally compatible. |







