Automatic transmission options for 4bd2

[GuerreroDiesel]

Hello everyone,
My father and I are building a Toyota fj62 with a 4bd2 conversion and have come to the point of having to find he right transmission. We have an entire Isuzu NPR truck but it is a manual. I’m told that the fast track for this build is to use an automatic transmission from a NPR truck with a divorced transfercase. I have the chance to buy that transmission but just wanted to check with you guys to confirm this is a viable option. I haven’t seen any threads anywhere of other people using this option. Thank you for the help.

 

[cruisermatt]

I’m told that the fast track for this build is to use an automatic transmission from a NPR truck with a divorced transfercase.

Whoever told you that needs to stop giving you advice...

Get an adapter to a GM auto transmission and then an adapter from that to the 60 split case. I’m assuming you still have Cruiser axles but your post contains next to no information.

 

[BenColo]

We have both trucks with everything on them. 89 LC and a 95 Isuzu NPR With a manual transmission and a 4bd2t. Both engines have been pulled. We’ve been studying this forum and know of the adapters you speak of but recently spoke to Tim from Tim’s Adapters and he is the one that told us of using a NPR automatic. He said with a divorced transfer case and a new shaft to couple them together it would work. We’ve been going over the forum and can’t find that anyone has actually done this. Before investing in a automatic Isuzu we wanted to hear what you folks have to say. Thanks in advance.

 

[tmxmotorsports]

That set up sounds way to long and using a divorce tcase means the rear drive shaft will be center not offset to the passenger side so you would need to change out the rear axle to a centered diff unless you use a divorce np200 tcase .

 

[doug720]

I have a 60 with a 4BD2 and H55 combo, and have driven it for well over 50k miles. I also have seen, helped, or read about nearly all the 4BD1/2 swaps into LandCruisers here on Mud and 4BTswaps. So take my advice for what it cost you...

Use/Do a manual transmission - either H55 or NV4500 type work well. Way better performance, way easier to install, and simpler overall. Unless you are hardcore crawler, or just love an auto, do a manual transmission. Read the many 4BD swaps here on Mud, and get others take on transmissions choice.

Having the whole NPR is good, as there are a ton of parts that make the swap easier, faster, cheaper and better. Plus, when finsihed, sell or scrap what's left!

Read other peoples threads and ask a lot of questions before you start. It seems there are not too many swaps people have kept for very long - ask why. My swap was done 8 years ago, and I love it!

If interested, you can read my swap below my signature.

Good luck either way,

 

[BenColo]

We certainly appreciate the help Doug. We were going to go the route you spoke of and had called asking about it when we we’re told of the automatic transmission option.
We want to do this right and you’ve been through the grinder with all this so to speak and your experience will be a great help. The LC has 240gs but in good shape. A lifelong Colorado car (aspen) we found it at a friends bodyshop pretty much abandoned because of a blown motor. No rust to speak of and everything on it is in good shape. We already had the NPR which we don’t use much so here we are. The adventure begins...

 

[BenColo]

We’ve been going through the posts and had a few questions. We know the wiring to the starter and alternator but we’re wondering what other areas are problem spots. Has anyone used the Isuzu fuel shutoff assembly? Also the gauges. I’m sure it’s been addressed here but we can’t find anything.
Also the motor mount location. We’ve read a few different things but wanted your opinion. We have the motor mount flange assembly off the Isuzu. It’s a cross member with the angled flanges the motor mounts to. The cross member hits the differential but we were thinking of tacking it together with a piece of steel to maintain the dimensions then cutting of the piece that hits. Would anyone have the exact locations of where it should be attached to the frame? If we had that location we could install the mounts, cut off the piece holding them together and we have factory mounts with the exact dimensions. The picture shows the flange bolted to the frame. You can see the cross member under it that connects to the other side. It all just unbolted from the Isuzu.
Also we noticed you are in El Segundo. My Son (GuerreroDiesel) lives in West L.A. Any chance he might be able to take a look at your rig? It would help a lot just seeing things in person. Thank you in advance.

 

[doug720]

No problem with meeting and taking a look at mine. I traveling a lot, but am around today and Wednesday, and will be available next Tuesday and Wednesday. Let me know.

The 60 and NPT frames are close in width, but the Isuzu mounts wont work, as they sit too low. These are tall engines, and you all the room you can get on the bottom to clear the axle.

I worked from the stock 60 transmission forward to set my 4BD2 - meaning the trans/transfer case and both driveshafts are in stock locations, and as close as possible to stock angles. I have no driveline vibrations or problems, and all parts are stock for maintenance.

Wiring is simple, alt, starter, etc. For Gauges, buy new FJ60 senders, and they work as well as stock! Add a pyro/egt and boost gauge - you need these!

You also need to wire a relay into the starter circuit, as the 4BD2 require more amperage through the key/ignition switch. This will burn out the key switch. This is very easy as the stock toyota starter wire triggers a Ford starter relay.

Read my swap thread carefully, all this is in there with pictures and some measurements.

Let me know via PM and we can meet.

 

[cruisermatt]

We have both trucks with everything on them. 89 LC and a 95 Isuzu NPR With a manual transmission and a 4bd2t. Both engines have been pulled. We’ve been studying this forum and know of the adapters you speak of but recently spoke to Tim from Tim’s Adapters and he is the one that told us of using a NPR automatic. He said with a divorced transfer case and a new shaft to couple them together it would work. We’ve been going over the forum and can’t find that anyone has actually done this. Before investing in a automatic Isuzu we wanted to hear what you folks have to say. Thanks in advance.

Yeah, it would work in something like a domestic pickup that has another 40-50” of wheelbase. Your rear driveshaft in the cruiser would be tiny. Not to mention the entire floor you’d have to cut out. The reason you’ve never seen a divorced T-case in a 60 is because it’s a horrible idea.

I like automatics, and don’t think that an automatic would be a bad choice, just use the right parts.

 

[BenColo]

Thanks for your input Cruiser. I wouldn’t mind an automatic. That was the idea to begin with that started this discussion. I’m sure it’s been done but what kind of setup would that be? As I mentioned we have the Isuzu sitting here but it’s a standard. Thanks.

 

[BenColo]

Also if we were to go the manual route what year of NV4500 would we be needing. I know either a Dodge or Chevy but but not sure in the year.

 

[cruisermatt]

Thanks for your input Cruiser. I wouldn’t mind an automatic. That was the idea to begin with that started this discussion. I’m sure it’s been done but what kind of setup would that be? As I mentioned we have the Isuzu sitting here but it’s a standard. Thanks.

I would suggest a GM auto as the adapter to the 62 T-case will be readily available. Just realize if you do a modern electric controlled version like a 4L60e you will need an aftermarket controller for it. Another option would be a 700r4 which is fully mechanical. Search the internet on this, there is tons of info.

Also if we were to go the manual route what year of NV4500 would we be needing. I know either a Dodge or Chevy but but not sure in the year.

Again, please search the internet as this is covered ad nauseam. It's going to depend on what adapter you use.