The CJ-5 most commonly used a three-speed manual transmission (the Borg-Warner T-90) paired with a Dana 18 transfer case. Some later models offered a four-speed manual option, and a small number were equipped with factory automatic transmissions. The exact setup varied by year, engine choice, and market.
Common configurations through the CJ-5's production run
What follows highlights the transmission options that appeared in CJ-5s over its long production span.
- Three-speed manual transmission (Borg-Warner T-90) paired with a Dana 18 transfer case was the standard and most widely used configuration.
- Four-speed manual transmissions (from the T-14/T-15 family) were offered as an option on some later CJ-5 models, often in conjunction with certain engine packages.
- Factory automatic transmissions were rare but did appear on select late-model CJ-5s, particularly with V8 engines or specialized market configurations.
In practice, manual transmissions dominated the CJ-5 lineup, with automatics limited to a minority of late-production or special-market examples.
How to identify your CJ-5 transmission
To confirm which transmission is in your CJ-5, use these identification steps and look for specific cues on the unit.
- Count the forward gears to distinguish three-speed versus four-speed units.
- Look for stamped model codes on the transmission case or bell housing (for example, T-90, T-14, or T-15 designations).
- Inspect the bell housing and linkage; these features help corroborate the exact transmission family.
- Cross-check the vehicle’s VIN and production data with parts catalogs or reference guides to map year, engine, and drivetrain configuration to the likely transmission.
Accurate identification aids not only maintenance and repairs but also restoration authenticity and parts compatibility.
Why the transmission choice matters for restoration and use
The original drivetrain affects gearing, crawl ratio, highway performance, parts availability, and authenticity. If you’re restoring or maintaining a CJ-5, confirming the correct transmission helps ensure period-correct operation and easier sourcing of components.
Summary
The CJ-5’s backbone is a three-speed manual transmission, most often the Borg-Warner T-90, used with a Dana 18 transfer case. Four-speed manuals appeared as options on some models, and a minority of late CJ-5s were fitted with factory automatics. Across years, engines, and markets, manual transmissions were the norm, with automatics being the exception rather than the rule.