Chat with us, powered by LiveChat Transfer Case Identification for 1980-1986 Jeep Vehicles | Quadratec Skip to main content
Reference
In 1980, the Jeep Universal changed to the Dana 300 transfer case. This was a great improvement over the Dana 20, and it seems to handle V8 horsepower without any problems. All Jeep Dana 300s are a right-hand drop. They have a circular bolt pattern, 23 tooth input spline, and main case material of cast iron. The length of the Dana 300 is 12". The transfer case uses an aluminum retainer that indexes this transfer case to the transmission. The stock low gear ratio is 2.62:1. The power to the rear axle is in line with the transmission.

This is a good gear-driven transfer case to retain when doing an engine or transmission swap. Jeep Dana 300s all use a 23 spline input. Some of the adapters we manufacture include a new Dana 300 input with a different input spline and other adapters retain the stock input. The various Dana 300 input shafts we manufacture include a 10 spline, a stock 23 replacement, a long 23 spline which is .750" longer spline engagement than stock, a 27 spline, a 21, 29, 31, 32, and 35 spline. Therefore, if you obtained a Dana 300 from a salvage yard, please verify the input spline.

The aluminum index retainer incorporates a front seal to protect the transfer case fluid from entering the transmission. The transmission adapter housing normally has a seal that is installed with the open side towards the transmission. This seal can be omitted on transfer case adapter installations, provided a gasket or silicone seal is used in between the adapter and the transfer case. The original Jeep adapters have a small bleed hole that is located between the two seals. This bleed hole is an indicator that one of the seals has gone bad and needs replacing.

Dana Model 300 Transfer Case

Top Jeep Articles

  • February 25, 2026
  • 5 min read
What Is A Jeep Recovery Kit
Often overshadowed by other recovery things like winches and recovery boards, a Jeep Recovery kit can be just as important should a recovery situation arise.
READ MORE
  • February 23, 2026
  • 4 min read
The New Jeep Owner’s Handbook: What You Need to Know From Day One
From the Jeep Wave to 4WD basics and avoiding death wobble, here’s what every first-time Wrangler or Gladiator owner needs to know before the next trail. Or the next stoplight.
READ MORE
  • February 16, 2026
  • 5 min read
Top Reasons To Buy Jeep Alloy Wheels
Whether you just want to make a style change, or your are upgrading tires, changing over to alloy wheels is an excellent upgrade with numerous benefits.
READ MORE
  • February 12, 2026
  • 8 min read
How Do I Air Down My Jeep's Tires?
It is not just for show. Airing down your vehicle's tires before heading off-road provides serious benefits and can prevent vehicle damage while helping avoid a recovery.
READ MORE