Novak Conversions Adapter GMAX15

Adapting the AX15 transmission to GM bellhousings.

Adapting the Chevrolet & GM Standard Shift Engine Bellhousingsto the Jeep AX15  

This conversion kit joins the popular AX15 overdrive transmission to the standard GM pattern bellhousings for a variety of OEM transmissions. This affordable and straightforward method allows the installer to retain the bellhousing they already own, and in many cases, the existing clutch and its release system. Its implementation is simple and extremely effective.

Product & Features

The adapter is precision designed and expertly CNC machined from 6061 T6 aluminum. Its thick cross-section provides ample thread engagement and high structural integrity. Precision indexing is achieved through locating dowels to the transmission and bearing retainer to the bellhousing.

Contents

Include GMAX15 adapter plate, bearing retainer (which serves as a centering index for the GM bellhousing and clutch release bearing sleeve) and required hardware.

Applications & Compatibility

Jeeps

This conversion is compatible with CJ7 and longer Jeeps. CJ5 Jeeps do not have a long enough wheelbase for the longer, five-speed transmissions.

These are strong transmissions, and full Size Jeeps such as Wagoneers, J-Trucks, etc. are conversion candidates for them unless used for more aggressive driving or heavy work situations.

Engines

Nearly all GM Generation I-III engines are compatible with this conversion, including Chevrolet Small Blocks, Gen III+ V8's, Chevrolet V6's and Chevrolet I6 engines. Buick, Olds, Pontiac, and other GM engines are compatible with this adapter assembly if you have a standard shift classic GM bellhousing and flywheel for your engine. Even some of the front wheel drive and odd application engines could be made to work with this adapter using certain factory or aftermarket bellhousings sharing this common rear pattern.

Flywheel

The factory flywheels on all of the above engines are acceptable with some notable exceptions. The LS architecture (Gen III & IV GM V8) engines have a crank offset of 0.400” forward that necessitates a special flywheel available below. There are a few rare exceptions to that rule in the 4.8L & 6.0L engines (from the heavier 3/4+ ton truck applications) to be wary of as they are special cases in themselves and very specific in their flywheel requirements. The 400 small block and some Gen II examples are externally balanced and require special consideration. Make sure the flywheel matches the engine, fits in your bellhousing and will accept an appropriate clutch.

Clutch

The factory pressure plates, whether three-finger or diaphragm, are compatible with this adaptation. However, the clutch will need to match both the flywheel and be compatible with the bellhousing. Not all bellhousings and flywheels will accept the larger clutches. 153 tooth flywheels are limited to the more difficult to source 10-1/2” clutch and changing over requires the appropriate bellhousing, flywheel, clutch and starter. Our advice is to plan ahead and not get stuck with difficult to source parts simply because you may have one piece of the puzzle.

The factory clutch release arms and their linkages can often be retained, including mechanical bellcrank style linkages, or hydraulic clutch release systems, whether factory or aftermarket retrofit.

Transmission Versions

All versions of the AX15 are compatible.

This is also compatible with Novak’s new and upgraded, stronger AX15 transmissions which come assembled to the extent possible with parts ordered. They can be seen here and purchased below.

Features

The adapter is precision designed, and expertly CNC machined from 6061 T6 aluminum. Its thick cross-section provides ample thread engagement and high structural integrity. Precision indexing is achieved through locating dowels to the transmission and bearing retainer to the bellhousing.

Contents

Include GMAX15 adapter plate, bearing retainer (which serves as a centering index for the GM bellhousing and clutch release bearing sleeve) and required hardware.