CJ5 Crossmember

[red dog seven]

I apologize if the answer is on here, I searched some but didn't find anything specific to my question. I am installing a 350ci with a Ford T18 trans and a Dana 20 Tcase in my '78 CJ5. The Jeep had no motor or trans when I bought it nor the transmission mount or crossmember. Is there an aftermarket crossmember or should I pick up a stock member and modify it or just have a new one completely fabricated. I searched Google but again fail to find anything fitting my specific need.

 

[Saddle Tramp]

I would pick up a 1977 to 1979 OEM CJ skid plate. (ebay, Craig's list, bone yard) It will be a direct bolt in. The frame is drilled and tapped for the skid plate; use the back set of holes for the T18. (Line up the back holes on the skid plate with back holes pre drilled in the frame.) In fact the holes for the T18 transmission mount will most likely be predrilled too.

 

[red dog seven]

Excellent, i was hoping it would be easy. I am picking up a skid plate tomorrow from a 79 that I found on Craig's List. Thanks for the help Saddle Tramp

 

[thiswontbetooexpensive]

Here is the skid plate out of my 1980 CJ5 . I couldn't remember what holes were being used after it came out and was going back on, but there are many options for mounting. I left it loose but hanging till I get the engine back in!

 

[Saddle Tramp]

Excellent, i was hoping it would be easy. I am picking up a skid plate tomorrow from a 79 that I found on Craig's List. Thanks for the help Saddle Tramp

Also the original factory T18 install has shims that drop the skid plate 1”. Any 1” drop kit should work. Here is a little extra info that might help:

http://www.jeeptech.com/convtrans/fordt18/index.html