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 T-18 Transmission and a Dana 20 Tcase in my '78 CJ5 . The Jeep had no motor or Transmission 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 T-18 . (Line up the back holes on the skid plate with back holes pre drilled in the frame.) In fact the holes for the T-18 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 T-18 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