FRONT WHEEL DRIVE SHIFT RAIL
Front wheel drive shift rail
For Dana 18 transfer case
Shift rail for engaging and disengaging front wheel drive in the Dana 18 transfer case. This rail works in conjunction with the shift fork to operate the 2WD/4WD function. An essential component during transfer case overhaul or repair.
|
Application Dana 18 transfer case |
Function Front wheel drive engagement/disengagement |
|
Position Front bearing cap |
Type Shift rail |
Features
- Shift rail for front wheel drive
- Suitable for Dana 18 transfer case
- Features grooves for poppet ball detent
- Works in conjunction with front wheel drive shift fork
- Requires shift rail seal during installation
★ Precision replacement component for the Dana 18 transfer case. During installation, remove the front bearing cap to access the shift rails.
Application
Fits all Dana 18 transfer cases as fitted to military jeeps (Willys MB, Ford GPW, M38, M38A1) and civilian models (CJ-2A, CJ-3A, CJ-3B, CJ-5, CJ-6) from 1941 to the early 1970s. Also suitable for International Harvester Scout models equipped with Dana 18.
Installation notes
The front bearing cap must be removed to access the shift rail. First remove the poppet plug, spring and ball. Note the bullet-shaped interlock pin located between both shift rails. Check the shift rail seals during installation and replace if necessary. After installation, verify that the shift fork can move freely without binding.
Compatibility
This rail is specific to the Dana 18 transfer case with twin-stick configuration. Not interchangeable with Dana 20 shift rails — the Dana 18 and Dana 20 have different shift rail configurations and lengths. During twin-stick conversion, the interlock pin can be removed for independent operation of front and rear axles.
Historical context
The Dana Spicer Model 18 transfer case was fitted to military jeeps from 1941 and remained in production until the early 1970s. The twin-stick system with separate control for front wheel drive and hi/low range was characteristic of this robust and reliable transfer case.
This description was generated automatically. Unsure about fitment? Contact us at info@willys.be.
⚠ Spotted an error in this description? Report it to info@willys.be
This part is intended for the restoration of historic military vehicles. Fitting, aligning, deburring or reworking is part of that work and is inherent to the nature of these goods. Dimensional variation also exists between original vehicles.
Installation requires technical knowledge of the vehicle. Unsure whether this part suits your version? Ask us before purchase at info@willys.be.
This part fits:
| Model | Years |
|---|---|
| Military jeeps | |
| Willys MB (early) | 1941, 1942 |
| Willys MB | 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945 |
| Ford GPW (early) | 1942 |
| Ford GPW | 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945 |
| Hotchkiss M201 | 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966 |
| Willys M38 | 1950, 1951, 1952 |
| Willys M38A1 | 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971 |
| CJ series | |
| Jeep CJ-2A | 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949 |
| Jeep CJ-3A | 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953 |
| Jeep CJ-3B | 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968 |
📐 Diagrams & technical drawings
From the original Technical Manual CJ2A_PL_1949 — Parts List — only for Willys CJ-2A / CJ-3A (1949)
