Topic: Swapping L52 tranny for W56

[lance808]

Aloha, I have a 1981 4x4 single cab Toyota pickup that has a terrible transmission. I want to switch to a more reliable W56 and my mechanic said it’s possible
However he is very busy and not giving me much information based on which parts I need for the job. I want to order everything at once and also have an idea of what needs to be done so when it becomes time, it can all
Be done at once with no issues. Can someone please tel me what this project entails? I know I need a w/56 transmission and a w-56 bell housing but as far as that, will it bolt right up perfectly or what is my mechanic going to have to do to make it fit appropriately. Mahalos for all the help!!

[Lewis Hein]

I think it should bolt up with no issues. Do yourself a favor and get a transmission jack of some kind. My G52 to W56 swap was just a matter of unbolting one and bolting in the other. Check and see if you will have driveline length issues.

[toyodaaddict]

 If you search the forum it has been discussed many times.

You will need to relocate the crossmember further back. I used a Budbuilt Bud B and went dual case at the same time. You may be able to relocate the stock crossmember with u bolts over the frame, not sure.

Drive lines will need to be lengthened/shortened. If your using stock shafts, I've heard you can use second gen shafts from a truck with your bed length but I'd measure to be sure . 

You will have to trim your tunnel for the new location of the tcase shifter.

This is what I remember off the top of my head. Its a good swap and worth doing.

[Rocksurfer]

Move the front bolts of the crossmember to the rear and then use an oem axle ubolt to relocate the rear bolts using the flat plates shown welding them in then you will need to shorten the rear ds and lengthen the front to make up for the shift in location. This was originally done with the oem crossmember and the aftermarket one was done later.