I'm looking to swap a W-56 tranny from an 89 pickup into my 84 pickup, both 4cyl. At the same time I'd like to use both of these transfer cases for my dual case setup. My question is if my W-56 is compatible with the forward-shift case from my 84 so I can use the top-shift case from the 89 in the rear. I've been told that it will work, but then I've also heard that the w-56 is only compatible with a top-shift case. I'm ready to do this, but don't want any unexpected surprises once I have everything torn apart.

 

There are two versions of the W56, the -A and -B models are top shift and the -C and -D models are forward shift. If you have one of the early versions, you must use a top shift case in front, or modify the forward shift case to top shift operation:
- http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/topshifter/

If you have a later model W56, the it can work with top or forward shifting cases. How to tell which you have? Look at the top of the t-case:


And if your t-case has a block off plate in the top and the shifter actually comes out of the back of the transmission case, then you have a later model W56. Also some photos of the W56A-D models on Marlin's web site:
- http://www.marlincrawler.com/htm/tra...ansmission.htm

 

Thanks, Roger. The W-56 I plan on using has a forward-shift transfer case. Rather than trying to modify my forward-shift case from my 84, I think I will just pick up a used top-shift case from my local mechanic.