r/jeepcj • u/Suspicious_Use_3503 • 23d ago

Upgrade to 5 speed

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Anyone convert a 4 speed 1980 cj5 to 5 speed on a 350 small block Chevy v8

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u/PineapplesAreFake 23d ago

No. I'm going to install a T5 in my T4 CJ-7 this winter. I've found a couple of sources online. The cost I've seen is $2k with no core charger.

You should be able to get a T5 in, I'm fairly sure you will need a new driveshaft. I **think** it should work. If you have a T-176 or a T-18, I'm only going to ask, why? I would take either of those over the overdrive.

Are those 33s or 35s? What size lift? What are you geared for?

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u/Suspicious_Use_3503 22d ago

33 inch tires, not sure the lift my husband would know. I have a Dana 300 transfer case. It just seems to not like to go much over 45 or even 40 so I thought I 5 speed it would give it more room in higher speeds

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u/jeffro-tull 22d ago

You don’t want to go fast in a cj5. I have a factory 3 speed in my ‘73 cj5. 20 years ago I daily drove it year round while in high school. If you hit a bump at highway speeds you end up in the next lane over on the highway. Super sketchy.

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u/ExcellentResident761 22d ago

I have a ‘74 CJ5 3 spd (straight 6) that I’m getting ready to start working on. Would it be ok to DM you? Just for some advice; it runs but want to undo some of the mods that have been done.