Product Catalog Jeep Conversion Knowledge Base About Novak Contact Novak Cart

Adapting the
Chevrolet & GM Standard Shift Bellhousings
to the
Jeep Tremec T176 Transmission

This adapter assembly makes for a strong and convenient adaptation of classic standard shift GM bellhousings to the T176 four-speed transmission, as was the optional transmission found in 1980-1986 CJ Jeeps.

Adapting the Jeep T176 to Chevy & GM Engines
Kit G176, adapting the Jeep T176 transmission to GM bellhousings
Part: #G176
Weight: 9 lbs.
Price: $299.20
Buy:
Notes: Adapter, bellhousing locator / throwout sleeve, pilot bushing, seal, o-ring, fastening hardware and instructions

5-1/8" Sizing Ring
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: 0.25 lbs.
Price: $35.00
Buy:

The Adapter
This plate style adapter is cast and machined of a high-grade aluminum alloy. Included are the GM bellhousing locator / throwout sleeve, pilot bushing, seal and hardware.

T176 Versions
The T176 only from Jeep CJ's is compatible with this conversion. The similar T177 and T178 transmissions from other Jeeps of this era feature longer input shafts and different gearing, and are not candidates for this conversion.

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 will work with both. If you are uncertain of your bellhousing bore, choose the 5-1/8" press-on 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 T176. 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.

Clutch release fork for a T-176 & Chevy Engine
Arm, clutch release, GM engine to post-'72 Jeeps
Part: #RAGM
Weight: 1 lbs.
Price: $33.20
Buy:

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.

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, T176 transmission and Dana 300 transfer case all considered.

Novak's Jeep Motor Mounts
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.

 

Aluminum Jeep radiator
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 engine upgrade.

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

 

 

 

 

The Chevy Small Block to a Jeep T-176 transmission
Generation I through Generation III Chevy V8 engines are popular choices as are the Chevy V6s. The Buick V6 is also a good choice. Installers considering engines with higher power than a classic 350 should consider a Chevrolet transmission upgrade, as the T176 is rated and proven at medium-duty.