AdaptersAdapting the
Chevrolet & GM Standard Shift Engine Bellhousings
to the
Jeep New Venture 3550 Transmission
This adapter assembly makes for a strong and convenient adaptation of classic, standard shift GM bellhousings to the NV3550 five-speed transmission, as was the transmission found in 1988(-1/2)-1999 YJ, XJ, MJ, ZJ and TJ Jeeps.
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Nearly all GM Generation I-III engines are compatible with this conversion, including Chevrolet Small Blocks, and Chevrolet V6 and I6 engines. Buick, Olds, Pontiac and other engines are compatible with this adapter assembly if you have a standard shift bellhousing and flywheel for your engine.
The Adapter
This plate style adapter is machined from a billet of aluminum alloy and it features an integrated, precision machined bearing retainer. Included are the GM bellhousing locator / throwout sleeve and mounting hardware.
AX15 Versions
All 3550's from 2000-2004 are compatible with this conversion.
Choosing Your Pilot Bushing
See our Pilot Bushings page to choose this critical component for your conversion.
GM Bellhousings
GM bellhousings typically feature either a 4-11/16" rear face bore or a
5-1/8" rear face bore, the latter typically only from Chevy / GM trucks from 1968-1991. Our adapter versions are available for both. If you are uncertain of your bellhousing bore, choose the #BR4 press-on spacer ring that can be used or removed to cover either situation. The ring is easily returnable for credit if not used in the installer's application.
Installation
The adapter is easily and quickly installed onto the 3550. All versions of the 3550 will simply need to have their bearing retainer snout cut or machined off to allow space for the provided GM retainer to be installed.
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| Generation I through Generation III Chevy V8 engines are popular choices as are the Chevy V6s. The Buick V6 is also a good choice. Even Big Block engines are candidates for this swap, but due to their power, a transmission swap may be preferable for them. |
Clutch System
A GM style bearing retainer is provided with each adapter kit so that you can use any of the common GM thowout bearings. You can even use nearly any stock GM clutch disc and pressure plate with this installation.
Novak's #HCR3 hydraulic clutch retrofit assembly is the ideal clutch release package for this conversion in nearly all applicable Jeeps.
Engines & Engine Mounting
Novak engine mounting system offers the best designs on the market for strength, ease and flexibility of installation. Whether you are installing a classic Small Block, a V6 or a Generation III powerplant, we've got you covered.
Novak offers what we have found to be the most intelligent engine mounting system for Jeeps available, allowing the installer to make an easy and satisfying decision as to powertrain placement with the new engine, 3550 transmission and NP / NVG transfer case all considered.
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| Novak's MM Series engine mounts, featuring excellent vibration dampening, superior strength and impressive adjustability - adjustable even after the engine is installed. The design and strength and affordability of our mounts are second to none. |
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| Our RadLock radiators offer a highly efficient and extremely durable cooling solution for your GM conversion engine. |
Engine Cooling
For your GM engine, we will suggest the use of our RadLock high-performance conversion radiators, which are rugged, easy to install and are extremely efficient in cooling in even the most demanding environments.
Axles
Use of factory axles is completely acceptable with this conversion. Axle upgrades are not necessary, but they may be chosen for reasons external to this transmission upgrade.
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| The classic Chevrolet bellhousing, with the four-bolt rear pattern. Buick, Olds, Pontiac and other bellhousings with the same rear face are equally compatible. We can provide you with a new bellhousing if you require one. Please inquire. |