1971 Auto Trans Crossmember Identification

[DGinney]

Picked up '71 that was a standard that now has a th350 and what I think is a NP203 in it. It appears the original 8 bolt crossmember ( that bolts to the upper and lower frame rails) was there but now it's a different one. The one that is there now, the TC is mounted to it and is only a four bolt, lower frame mounted one. I have an original '71 TH350 with the NP205 and was wondering what the correct crossmember I will need to put the np205 in? My NP205 does have the four bolt L bracket on it and the mating frame mount is still there. I apologize for no pics but I can take some if that helps. I've spent some time Googling just really want to know from you guys exactly what crossmember I need or maybe the one I have is correct? Thanks!

[litebulblsc]

Here is a picture I took for a forum member a while ago. It's the best I got to get you started

[DGinney]

Thank you. I'll take a pic of what I got and compare. I'll post it up as well.

[DGinney]

Well let me know your thoughts regarding the cross member type and what I'll need to put in the 205. Also the current transfer case model. I was thinking it was a 203 but I can get it what I think is 2wd? As one position will free wheel the front input. So now I'm thinking it's not a 203? Just not that familiar with TC models.

[kwmech]

Pics didn't come through. Anyways some of the trucks had 2 x members. the front one being the upper and lower then the back one (4 bolt) did nothing more than hold the back side of the skid plate that protected the t-case. AND 203s were not available until 73. Unless your truck has had it swapped in during the conversion

[DGinney]

I definitely know somebody swapped it for sure. Really no pictures in the previous comment? I'll try to fix that as if you saw the pics it would make more sense.

[litebulblsc]

I see no pictures.

[DGinney]

Here are some pics that were supposed to be in previous message.

[DGinney]

Not sure why the other ones are upside down.

[1rippen6]

That could be the right crossmember, does it have holes for the side braces to bolt to. They were riveted from the factory but a lot are replaced with bolts to make it easier to remove.

[kwmech]

You could bolt in just the t-case and probably use the existing x-member, but I would look for the upper pieces to catch the top of the frame rail for added strength. Have a closer pic of the x-member seeing whether or not the holes are there for the added parts

[1rippen6]

I have a couple sets of the upper brackets.

[litebulblsc]

If you zoom in on my picture, you can see the 3 rivets for the upper brackets

[1rippen6]

Here is what I have

[DGinney]

A side view

[DGinney]

Another

[DGinney]

Here's a pic I found to be what I think I should have.

[DGinney]

Originally Posted by 1rippen6

Here is what I have

Wonder if these brackets would work with my current crossmember? Mine doesn't seem to be drilled, but not sure if mine is bent the same as what it should be.

Any idea's on what transfer case I have?

[1rippen6]

Originally Posted by DGinney

Wonder if these brackets would work with my current crossmember? Mine doesn't seem to be drilled, but not sure if mine is bent the same as what it should be.

Any idea's on what transfer case I have?

There should be a round data tag on the back of the transfer case. It maybe cover in grease but if no one removed it, that should tell you.

[kwmech]

You are correct, you have a 203, later pics in the post shows a 205

[litebulblsc]

Originally Posted by DGinney

Wonder if these brackets would work with my current crossmember? Mine doesn't seem to be drilled, but not sure if mine is bent the same as what it should be.

Any idea's on what transfer case I have?

I would just see if rippen had the correct crossmember to go with the upper pieces, and make it all correct

[DGinney]

Originally Posted by litebulblsc

I would just see if rippen had the correct crossmember to go with the upper pieces, and make it all correct

Yes, I would like to definitely make it all correct. My goal with this is to keep it as stock as possible as it won't be a show truck but will be a nice safe Summer driver, turn key and pleasurable for the family. I have a lot work to get it to that point so I'm trying to gather as much information/parts so when I start I'll have most of the stuff on hand. All your help is much appreciated!

[1rippen6]

I may, I'll look tonight and let you know.

[DGinney]

Originally Posted by 1rippen6

I may, I'll look tonight and let you know.

Thank you!!

[1rippen6]

Here is what I have and the 2 pcs. pictured above