[im5811mp]

I AM GOING TO PURCHASE A 1980 CHEROKEE WITH FULL TIME 4WD. I WAS WONDERING IF IT WAS POSSIBLE TO CONVERT THE FRONT AXLE TO MANUAL HUBS? I THINK IT HAS A DANA 44 FRONT AXLE, I'M UNSURE OF THE REAR AXLE. ALSO IT HAS A 360 V-8, WILL ANY CHRYSLER 360 SWAP IN OR DOES IT HAVE TO COME FROM A JEEP? ANY INFO WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.

[Bob Barry]

You can't convert to manual hubs with your transfer case; there is no mode in which the front driveshaft isn't being powered by the engine, and having unlocked hubs in 4Hi-Normal mode would burn up the viscous coupler in your NP219 transfer case (a $350 item, when you find one).

It will have the D44 front axle and the AMC20 rear axle with one-piece axles and bigger tubes than the weaker units used on CJ's. Gearing will be either 2.73's or 3.31's.

It has an AMC 360ci V-8, which is completely different from the Dodge 360ci V-8 (though they do share the same specs for lifters, so those interchange). But no, you'd have to go with another '72-'91 AMC V-8, which includes 304's, 360's and 401's.

[jeepfreek80]

is it possible to change the transer case and front diff from an 82 with free wheeling hubs into a 1980 constant 4x4

[carnuck]

yes. If you go to a NP208 you will need a longer rear shaft