changing out transmission Not bell housing?

[Gorillaguzzler]

The transmission/transfer case in my 52 is in bad shape.  It is very loud and hard to shift into 2nd and 3rd.  I just bought another jeep for parts and I do not know much about the transmission but I want to try it and see if it is any better before I go through the expense of trying a rebuild.  My question is can I separate the transmission from the bell housing on both and swap them that way?  what will I run into or should I just pull them bell housing and all?

[Carls_jeep]

Yes, in fact it's easy to do it that way but you may need a tranny jack unless your very strong. It's an off balance load and hard to handle by yourself, get some help and it's easier.

[calvinhunt]

Gorillaguzzler,
  Before you separate the transmission from the bell housing you will need to remove the clutch fork.  If you don't you will over-stretch and probably destroy the throw out bearing return spring.  It's not easy to reinstall the fork on reassembly but we have all done it.  You should purchase a maintenance manual or two from most any of the Willys Jeeps suppliers.  The information you get from those manuals in such operations as this will save you more in parts and grief than the cost of the manuals.  Good luck.  Keep us posted.  And, it's okay to ask all the questions you want right here.  Lots of good folks with a lot of experience (but the manuals are still worth it).

[Shalka04]

Gorillaguzzler,
I've been researching the exact same thing, so please update with what you find and I will try and do the same.
That said, i've also heard that the transmission shift tower and transfer case levers need to be pulled out from above, and the tranny/ TC need to slide more striaght back then anything else.

-John

[Carls_jeep]

Yes, I should have mentioned the clutch release fork has to be pulled out and the shift tower and transfer case levers have to be removed. A mechanic knows those things have to be removed as well as the drive lines, clutch cable, speedo cable, park brake cable and on and on. Without a manual it's hard to know all the things that are in the way or have to be removed in a certain order or parts will be damaged. The tranny and transfer cases together are over 100 lbs and are awkward so be very careful and rent a tranny jack and four tall jack stands. You will need at least 18" between the frame and the floor and higher is better. �

As Calvin said, buy a manual and it will explain a lot of things. Start with this one http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jeepster-Shop-Manual-1948-1949-1950-1951-1952-1953-Willys-Repair-Mechanics-Book-/400318092448?pt=Motors_Manuals_Literature&hash=item5d34d154a0&vxp=mtr

EDIT: Calvin and I have talked about this a lot and in fact just last week we R&I'ed his tranny. We pulled the bellhousing with the tranny because we had to pull the clutch. I felt it was easier to pull the tranny/transfer cases and then the bellhousing but the committee out voted me. It's a good thing a real strong man was helping us for we didn't have a tranny jack.  

[Gorillaguzzler]

Thanks for the advice guys.  I have 1 manual but I was VERY disappointed with it I am going to order a new one.  I think I may be trying the exchange this coming weekend so I will let you know how it goes.  I have a transmission jack so that is covered.  The tub is off the parts jeep so it will be very easy to get to it.  I will let you know how it goes. If anyone has any last minute advice before the weekend gets here(I know its a few days away) Please post it up.