'72 FJ40 transmission swap-What would you do?

[msapers]

I have a '72 FJ40 with a stock 350V8 mated to the original 3 speed transmissionwith an AA adapter. For various reasons, I'd like to swap transmissions.

My rig is used as a daily driver (approximately 150 miles daily) and is 'wheeled nearly every weekend.

I have an NV4500 out of a 2wd '94 Chevy pickup in mint condition that I bought about ten years ago for another project. I do not have a bellhousing/clutch fork etc.. for this trans.

My main concerns are minimizing downtime to my 'Cruiser, driveline length/angles/vibration and cost.

As I see it, my options are as follows:

1. Use my NV4500 (I am not sure what parts I would need for this)

2. Use a Land Cruiser 4 speed with a Ranger torque splitter. (I have searched extensively on this topic and opinions seem pretty equally divided)

3. Use a TH700R4. (Would I also need a GM T-case and centered rear axle with this option?)

4. Use something else I haven't thought of.

So, my question is, what would you do? What do you recommend as the most sensible approach?

Thanks for any advice you can give me.

Scott

 

[Poser]

SM420 or 465...

That is what I would do.

 

[msapers]

As much as I like the 420 and 465, other than a compound low 1st gear it's still basically a three speed on the street.

 

[donny paradise]

I'd go with the 700r4 and advance adapter kit to yota t-case Transmission to Transfer Case I'm tired of shifting gears

 

[shelfboy1]

700 r4 3.60 1st gear and .70 overdrive. dont have one in a cruiser yet but son runs them in his chevies with military axles and 1400x 20 military tires and they hold up well.currently building a 40 with same setup but bigger tires so he can see how an old man does it good luck

 

[4x4 Station Wagon]

I to had a nv4500 in my palms however after looking at a few other builds (not saying it wouldn't work or be SWEET) the entire drive train package was to long for me and didn't leave enough driveline...... I agree that the 420 465 is the best bullet proof (affordable) option however yep still basically a three speed so no gains for what your trying to do. Looks like you narrowed a couple of them out! You say you do a lot of driving it may be nice not to shift!

 

[msapers]

Ok, so length-wise, which is shorter-NV4500 with LC 3spd case or 700r4 with LC 3speed case? It seems like the shortest overall would be the LC 4 speed/Ranger/LC3 speed case. Correct? Wouldn't this be the cheapest option also?