Diff 1979 CJ5 Drive Train Questions

[brucekr]

So, I recently was gifted a1979 CJ5 by my brother. I'm an extreme newb to this era of Jeep, what's compatible, etc. He bought it from someone that had allegedly done a YJ front leaf swap on it, but really that's all he knew.

The VIN is J9F83EHXXXXXX. Using the VIN decoder here on this site, it points to a T-150 3spd and 304V8. It does have a AMC 304 , but after crawling under it, the Transmission is a T-18 -1B. The front differential is a Dana 30 . According to what I've read, the standard rear differential should be an AMC20 , but it appears to be a Dana 44 . I looked on the casting but didn't see any model numbers. One of the things I'm trying to figure out is what components I have so I can maintain it. Like the Dana 44 , if I wanted to buy U Joints for my rear drive shaft or new brakes, I'm not sure what to tell O'Reilly's. Or with the T-18 , if I replace the clutch components, what kind of headaches will be in store? Am I alone in the pursuit of these answers?

I have so many questions....but I'm very eager to learn.

 

[Manic Mechanic]

Definitely a 44 rear axle. If you need to buy a clutch it would be best just to take the old one with you to compare it. It really not a big deal mostly just making sure the spline count is the same.

 

[KRUPP]

The T-18 Transmission is a goodun'. So is the rear Dana 44 . Curious if it's an OEM from an '86 CJ7 , or if it's something else. Is the rear axle wider than the front, as far as how far out the tires protrude?

Looks like someone did a spring over axle conversion too. At the front end, do you have spring shackles at the front of the leaf springs, right below the bumper? Curious if they converted the shackles to the rear too.

Do you know what Transfer Case you have? Maybe something good switched there as well.

For u-joints, you're likely running standard Spicer 1310. The rear looks like it has the OEM drum brakes. The auto parts store kid will want a make, model and year of vehicle. Just tell them it's a '79 CJ5 and that should be ok for the u-joints and brake shoes.