5.3 Vortec & 4L60E Adapter Size Question

[fj40OCD]

Progress Update: Installing the engine, transmission, and transfer case with advanced adapters kit on my 79 FJ40 frame while waiting to get the body build finished. My question is how long should the drivetrain be. It is extremely long (66 inches) and it looks like I will have to have my rear drive shaft shortened 8-12 inches and the front one lengthened the same. I have also had to get the twin stick adapter to be able to get the transfer case to work with the original hole in the floor. Interesting enough, that is the approximate length of the adapters. I thought this was the purpose for using their adapters- to make everything fit correctly. I have called advanced adapters numerous times and they say it is ok but it still seems like something is wrong with this picture. The other problem is the heads on the 5.3 are still about 3 inches from the firewall and most pics of the 5.3/4L60E conversion look like the heads and valve covers are nearly touching the firewall. Has anyone else run into this problem? Thanks Bryan

 

[thecrazygreek]

Its all about pushing the engine as far forward as possible without hitting the radiator...

 

[fj40OCD]

any weight distribution problems with this?

 

[sgirt]

I have a NV4500 with the Vortec 5.3. I think I am about 3" from the firewll to the heads. The rear of the tcase is about 1" from the cross memeber tube in the rear. I have about .5" from the main pully to the elec fan on the radiator. it is tight, but fits.

 

[fj40OCD]

thanks for the info. that is the transmission i wanted to go with but other family members don't drive a manual so i opted for auto.

 

[TCinVA]

I have an extremely long drivetrain in my 40. Like others have said, the furthest forward you can go without hitting the radiator is what you're shooting for. The further from the firewall the better for access to the distributor, etc. I flipped my rear springs to lengthen my rear driveshaft.

 

[Downey]

Too bad you couldn't have gotten one of the 1" thick Downey adapters from AA. I believe their normal AA adapter is about 7" long---what a shame. When Downey closed, I sold them several 1" adapters, but very few shafts. If they still had any of the 4 spd shafts, I have the bearings that will make them work. PM me for more info!!!

 

[fj40OCD]

Thanks for the reply Jim. I am going to try it this way first since I have everything set in place, but it is good to know that there is another option. Thanks Bryan

 

[xjnation]

I'm running a 4.3 V6 /4L60E /NP205 combo pushed foward as far as possible. I have enough room to mount my battery behind the motor and only 3/8" clearance at the electric fan. Both shafts are nice and long, though.