So.. My ultimate goal with my 91 XJ is to rebuild/restore the ol girl from the engine down to every little bit of rust that dares show itself. I want to keep my XJ for years and years. Now, with it hitting 200,000k miles recently, I figure in the next 100,000 - 200,000k miles or so Im looking at a new engine and a new tranny as well as new t-case (why not if everything else is being replaced). My question is this..

Should I just get a new AW4 or convert to a manual and get the AX-15? Which lasts longer, gets better mileage, etc?

Thanks guys.

 

the general consensus is that the AX-15 was the best transmission jeep ever used. I'm certainly a big fan. Though most people steer clear from doing an auto to manual conversion. Not sure why, I guess it just seems like a lot of work. But if you're replacing the engine and t-case then I don't see it being any more difficult.

 

Correct. The AX-15 is one of the Greatest MANUAL transmissions found in a Jeep.

and the AW4 is about the most reliable Factory AUTOMATIC transmission to ever be put in an American automobile.

It's strictly up to personal preference on witch to go with.

 

Thanks for the advice guys. I think, since im a budget, I will just swap the AW4. I love that transmission, and I think the one I have will run even stronger with the new cooler Im putting in. Another question; if I dont off road or haul anything that often, should I just get a medium duty cooler or would heavy duty be overkill?