Adapting the
Chevrolet & GM Standard Shift Bellhousings
to the
Jeep Borg-Warner T18 Transmission

This adapter assembly makes for a strong and convenient adaptation of classic standard shift GM bellhousings to the T18 four-speed transmission, as was the optional transmission found in 1976-1980 CJ Jeeps.

Kit 1879, adapting GM bellhousings to the 1976 - 1979 Jeep CJ T18 transmission Part #: 1879 Weight: 6.03 Price: $218.00 Buy: Includes the adapter plate, retainer, fastening hardware, seal, o-ring, and instructions If using a GM bellhousing that has a 5-1/8" bore, you will require the following sizing ring: Ring, sizing, precision, 4-11/16" GM bearing retainers to 5-1/8" bore bellhousings Part #: BR4 Weight: 0.40 Price: $33.38 Buy:

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, seal and hardware.

T18 Versions
The T18 only from the 1976 - 1979 Jeep CJ's is compatible with this conversion. The similar T18s transmissions from other Jeeps of this era feature longer input shafts and different gearing, and are not candidates for this kind of conversion.

If you are adapting to an earlier Jeep CJ or FSJ, jump here.

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, add our #BR4 spacer ring that can be used or omitted 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 the T18. Due to design constraints, the transmission's two top ears will require slight elongation with a round or rotary file. This process is simple and will not compromise the strenth of the flange.

Arm, clutch release, GM engine to post-1971 Jeeps Part #: RAGM Weight: 1.38 Price: $26.73 Buy: Will not fit cast iron bellhousings without widening the release arm window

Choosing Your Pilot Bushing
Depending on the engine you choose, your pilot bushing will vary. See our Pilot Bushings page to choose this critical component for your conversion.

Clutch Release
Both factory mechanical and factory 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 use their factory hydraulic master cylinder or wish to upgrade to a hydraulic system can use Novak's #HCR3 hydraulic clutch retrofit assembly.

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
The 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, T18 transmission and Dana 20 transfer case all considered.

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, 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.

The classic Chevrolet bellhousing, with the four-bolt rear pattern. Buick, Olds, Pontiac and other bellhousings with the same rear face are equally compatible.