Specifications

53
P/N 716133
1974-79 JEEPS WITH TH400s:
In the early 1970s, Jeep started to use the AMC TH400 automatic transmission. The transmission case was first used with a circular
bolt pattern that was equipped with a cast iron spacer ring. The spacer ring was approximately 2" wide and was used to adapt the
special AMC TH400 case to two different types of V8 engines; the 304 V8 and the Buick 350 V8. In 1974, AMC redesigned the
transmission case to eliminate the special adapter ring. The case simply bolted direct to the 304 V8. The transfer cases used in
both these transmission variations were the Dana 20 and the Borg Warner Quadra-Trac. The internal components of these
transmissions are interchangeable with the GM TH400. The TH400 output shaft was 10 spline when coupled to the Quadra-Trac,
and could only be used with the Quadra-Trac transfer case. The TH400 output shaft for the Dana 20 transfer case was very similar
to the GM short shaft TH400, with exception of the "O"-ring that sealed the inside diameter of the sleeve. Chevy V8 conversions
equipped with these transmissions have been very popular for these vehicles.
A. Stock Transmissions: If the original AMC TH400 transmission is mounted directly to the 304 V8 engine block without the
use of a special adapter plate, then you can use P/N 716133. If your transmission is equipped with the spacer plate, then you
will need to replace the transmission case with a Chevy case. In either application, you will need to use the Chevy flexplate and
eliminate the original AMC flexplate. On some of the early model applications, if the stock torque converter was mounted to the flexplate
with 5/16” diameter bolts or has an AMC 360 engine, the torque converter will need to be replaced with another AMC TH400 or GM
torque converter.
B. Transmission Linkage: The original column shift control linkage for the transmission can be retained or an optional floor
shifter can be added. The transmission should remain in the original location, so no modifications to the stock linkage should be
required.
C. Radiator: The original radiator can be retained in the stock location. The inlet and outlet positions will need to be changed
to match the Chevy engine. An optional electric fan can be installed on the front side of the radiator for additional cooling.
D. Driveshafts: On Chevy V8 engine conversions, the drivelines can be retained without modifications. The main limiting factor
is positioning the engine so that the Chevy distributor cap has sufficient clearance with the firewall. To locate your engine, leave
the transfer case in the original location and assemble the transmission and adapter plate forward from the transfer case stock
location. Additional clearance for the distributor cap can be obtained by using a standard point-type distributor.
E. New Transfer Case: The Quadra-Trac transfer case has the rear output driveshaft located on the passenger side of the
vehicle. We have had several customers change the transfer case to the Dana 18, which also has the rear output shaft located on
the passenger side. If changing to the Dana 18 transfer case, you will need to purchase transfer case adapter kit P/N 50-1300.
If a Dana 20 transfer case is going to be used, you will need to change your rear axle to a centered design and use P/N 50-0500
or P/N 50-1300. Part No. 50-0500 is a copy of the original Jeep Dana 20 adapter kit, however, these parts are not interchangeable
with the stock parts. When using this kit, you will need to purchase a new input gear for your transfer case.
F. Flexplate: When installing a Chevy V8 engine to your AMC TH400, you will need to purchase a new flexplate. GM flexplates
are available in either a 153 tooth or 168 tooth gear count. The bolt pattern will match the original Jeep torque converter. When installing
the flexplate to the original Jeep torque con-
verter, you must make sure that the converter
is pulled forward approximately 1/8" to avoid
transmission pump damage. You must
use the spacers provided in the kit
between the flexplate and converter.
These spacers will properly locate
the converter. Each adapter kit is
furnished with a new torque converter
crank support bushing. This bushing
is installed in the back of the engine
crank for support of the nose of the stock
torque converter.
conversion application summary (1941-79)