Muncie M20 SM456 2wd trans, add a tranfser case?

[1979C20]

I have a Muncie M20 SM465 transmission. Its an old top loader manual 4spd. I'm looking to add a transfer case to it so I can have the HI-LO option for light offroading. My rear end has stock posi and does wuite well offroad, But I'd like a lower range for going up/down hills. From what I've read, they made 4wd versions of this transmission and the differences are, The 2wd has a 35 spline output shaft and the 4wd has either a 32 spline, or a 10 spline. So, I was wondering if there were a transfer case that would bolt directly up to my trans, because I don't want to spend the money for a adapter plate. And, is there a way to change the input shaft of a transfer case? so, I dont have to pull py transmission apart in order to replace the output shaft?

[1979C20]

Oh, And its in a 79 C20 with a 350. I'm looking into doing a 4wd drive conversion in the future, But I'm looking more towards getting the transfer case on it for now. Gotta start somewhere! and my dad has a Dana model 18, and a Dana model 20 transfer case on the side of the house. So, why not get on of those bolted up to start off the conversion process since they are readily available?

[Da67goatman]

Why not run a divorced case? then you can use whatever case you choose.

[1979C20]

I'm not sure what you mean by a divorced case. Please explain? I am 17 and have limited knowledge of trans cases. Rebuilt my engine on my own at 16, but don't have much experience with transfer cases and what not.

[Da67goatman]

a divorced case is attached to the trans by a very very short drive-shaft and mounted on its own crossmember.  That way a 2wd trans can be used with a transfercase, just be careful of the rear driveshaft angle, they tend to get really steep because the case is so far back and the shaft is so short.  Ford did it alot in the 70's, my neighbor told me about it from his truck.

[1979C20]

Could I mount the transfer cases rear yolk so that it replaces where the carriage joint is? If that would work, then the angle of the drive shaft would be the same as stock with carriage.

[1979C20]

Okay, Doing some research on divorced transfer cases. What would it take to divorce a Dana 20 or a Dana 18?

[fitz]

A divorced transfer case has a short driveshaft between the tranny and the transfer case. This is the set up that was on my truck.

[1979C20]

Wow that is HANDY! But, What would it take to convert a D18 or D20 to a divorced case?

[Blazin]

To convert a non divorced case would be about the same amount on work to swap your trans over to a 4x4 trans. You will need to find a divorced NP 205. ( NP = New Process ) Doges ran them up into the mid 70s in 3/4 and 1 tons. Pretty sure the last in a Chevy was 66 / 68 ish.