convert push button t-case to manual

[1991fordexploder]

Does anyone know if it's possible to convert the pushbutton t-case to a manual?

 

[nitro71]

Yes it is. I've got my manual t-case and am planning on putting in in eventually. Theres a couple of posts on it I just don't have them bookmarked. From what I understand it's almost a direct bolt in type swap.

 

[little x]

NO

It is not possible. Only option is to swap t-cases with a manual one.

 

[nitro71]

I meant it's possible to swap out the whole tcase..

 

[Anime]

Can't convert it since it's electronically controlled, but you sure can swap it.

Swapping to a manual TC and manual hubs makes a lot of sense for hardcore off-road use.
I've always found using manual hub adapters with the auto hubs and push-button 4x4 quite silly.

 

[lifeguard379]

if you feel like doing some work, you could probably find a way. all you need is an imagination, and spare parts lol

i was thinking about trying something out with my spare case. use shift motor parts, some cable (like the ox lockers use) and see what will work.

 

[1991fordexploder]

electronic to manual conversion

well i'm a diesel mechanic, and at school we have an eaton fuller electric/air shift, and the only difference is the motor is in place of the stick shifter. my point is that i could probably take the shift forks from a manual t-case and convert a push button to manual.


any opinions?
please speak up. i would like to hear any and all ideas. thanks

 

[Justin Klare]

good luck if you want to attempt that.

 

[1991fordexploder]

it cant be that hard

 

[lifeguard379]

well if you try doing it that way, i believe the front half of the 2 cases are different.

 

[rayamx69]

when my t-case computer went out i wired in a dpdt rocker switch in to the main power wires (yellow/orange) of the motor to operate it manually. i left the computer and 4x4 buttons hooked up so my dash lights still work.

 

[nitro71]

I don't know about your local pull n save type junk yard but I scored my manual tcase and linkage for like $70. You could fab something but if you can get one cheap I'd just go and get one.

 

[Four0Sport]

i dont know why everyone dogs the electronic t-case. ive used mine for years w/out any problems whatsoever. knock on wood*

 

[KPSquared]

I saw someone had replace the shift motor with some cable acuated mechanism. I don't remember where. I thought it was maybe on here but maybe not. It can be done, but manual t-cases aren't that expensive and there is great info on here about rebuilding the shift motor. I plan to keep the electronic alive as long as I can but if it leaves me stranded more than once, I'm gonna chuck it and find a stick...

 

[josh93rodeo]

So the manual shift t-case is a direct bolt in? I could get my hands on one for pretty cheap. Anyone know if you have to cut the floor or if there is a plate you could just take off? Either way that wouldn't be a big deal.

 

[geoph1986]

There should be a block off plate bolted to your floor. For the swap you will need to get the manual t-case, shifter, shifter boot, floor plate (or modify the one you have, but it's easier to just use one from the donor), tools, and time. It's a direct bolt in replacement. If you want your 4X4 lights to work, there will be a bit of wiring to deal with...but I just left mine disconnected. I don't need a light to tell me I'm in 4HI or 4LOW. According to Hollander Interchange, these are the donor vehicles you are looking for.

BRONCO II 90 4x4, Warner 1354, manual shift
EXPLORER 91-95 manual shift
MAZDA B-2300 94 (Warner 1354), manual shift
MAZDA B-3000 94 (Warner 1354), manual shift
MAZDA B-4000 94 (Warner 1354), manual shift
RANGER 90-93 Warner 1354, manual shift
RANGER 94 (Warner 1354), manual shift
Have fun. On any swap there always seems to be one bolt that gives a problem, and 9 time out of 10 it will be the one you can't really see.lol

EDIT - Around here t-cases are about $100.00 at the U-pull yard.

 

[Diff Whack Daddy]

The front half of the cases ARE different between the manual and electronically controlled transfercases, as are the parts of the internals and shift mechanisms. The only was to do a bolt in switch from electric to manual is by swapping t-cases and getting the shift linkage as well. There is no manufactured conversion for the electric to manual. It has been done in the past, as posted earlier with the rocker swtch, and yes someone also rigged up a cable actuated twisting contraption. However, those are both one off systems and both have there limitations and weak points. The gears and chain of the two t-cases are identicle, therefore there isn't a reliabilty issue using the electric case with manual hubs as indicated previously. I used the electric shift (the same one) for a long time before I upgraded to an Atlas. It was still working fine when I removed it.

 

[1991fordexploder]

Awsome thanks guys for all of your input. but right now i have bigger problems with the rear diff. it's FIBERGLASS!!!!!!!

 

[KPSquared]

i assume you're talking about the rear diff cover? ya, plastic crap. Find a steel one...

 

[nate12346]

I have an electric T-case that I am running manual.I just pulled off the motor, and there is a little shaft that sticks out, You can fab up lots of things to attach to the shaft. Right now, i just crawl under and twist it with pliers. I have to get out and lock the hubs anyways, so it doesn't matter to me. You could rig up a way to twist it from the cab with like a speedo cable or those flexible drill attachments.... Just some ideas

25 bones for this one