Adapting the
Ford Windsor Standard Shift Engine Bellhousings
to the
Jeep AX15 & New Venture 3550 Transmissions
This adapter assembly makes for a strong and convenient adaptation of classic, standard shift Ford bellhousings to the AX15 & 3550 five-speed transmission; the transmissions found in 1988(1/2) - 2004 YJ, XJ, MJ, ZJ and TJ Jeeps.
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The Ford 289, 302, 5.0L, 351 & 5.7L engine family are all compatible with this conversion. The use of a the classic and popular Ford "butterfly" bellhousing is required.
The Adapter
This plate style adapter is machined from a billet of aluminum alloy and it features an integrated, precision machined bearing retainer. Included are the Ford bellhousing locator / throwout sleeve and mounting hardware.
AX15 Versions
All AX15's from 1988-1999 are compatible with this conversion.
3550 Versions
All NV3550's from 2000-2004 are compatible with this conversion. Your Ford bellhousing will require that a small portion be milled to clear the front shifter nub on a 3550, as pictured below.
Choosing Your Pilot Bushing
See our Pilot Bushings page to choose this critical component for your conversion.
Ford Bellhousings
Ford bellhousings had a largely consistent bellhousing rear face which is compatible with this adapter. Details pictured below.
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| 289, 302, 351, 5.0L and 5.7L Ford Windsor engines all make for great Jeep power. |
Installation
The adapter is easily and quickly installed onto the transmission. All versions of the 3550 and 1994-1999 AX15's will simply need to have their bearing retainer snout cut or machined off to allow space for the provided Ford retainer to be installed. Earlier AX15's that featured the concentric internal throwout slave bearing do not require this modification.
Clutch System
A Ford style bearing retainer is provided with each adapter kit so that you can use any of the common Ford thowout bearings. You can use your Jeep style disc in a Ford pressure plate with this installation.
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.
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| Novak's MMX 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. |
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, NV3550 transmission and NP / NVG transfer case all considered.
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| Our RadLock radiators offer a highly efficient and extremely durable cooling solution for your Ford conversion engine. |
Engine Cooling
For your Ford 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.
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| The classic Ford bellhousing, with the four-bolt rear pattern.
Aftermarket bellhousings and scatter shields may also be used. Note the area marked for milling a relief to clear the shifter nub on the front of the 3550. |