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

  • June 12, 2026
  • 3 min read
2027 Jeep Wrangler Sarge Goes Back to Where It All Began
The latest Twelve 4 Twelve special edition pays tribute to the original Willys MB with military-inspired styling, exclusive heritage details, and a matching Gladiator model.
READ MORE
  • June 12, 2026
  • 3 min read
Best Jeep Gear Ratios for Larger Tires: A Complete Re-Gearing Guide
Matching the proper axle ring and pinion ratio to a larger tire size is a cost-effective way to make up for lost power and performance.
READ MORE
  • June 11, 2026
  • 4 min read
Jeep Interior Q&A
Top Jeep questions and answers when upgrading your Jeep's interior.
READ MORE
Green Jeep Gladiator with desert red background
  • June 9, 2026
  • 5 min read
Top 5 Auxiliary Lighting Upgrades for Your Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator
Whether you're navigating dark trails, setting up camp after sunset, or simply improving visibility on back roads, these auxiliary lighting upgrades can completely transform how you use your Jeep after the sun goes down.
READ MORE
  • June 3, 2026
  • 5 min read
Congratulations, You’ve Joined The Wrangler Family: Now Check These Things First
From square-headlight YJs to high-tech JLs, here’s the real-world used Wrangler inspection guide every new Jeep owner should read before the next trail ride, road trip, or late-night parts order.
READ MORE
  • May 29, 2026
  • 5 min read
Five Reasons A Jeep Bumper Should Be Your Next Upgrade
Rugged, durable aftermarket Jeep Wrangler bumpers offer much more than just a safety upgrade over the factory version — making them ideal for an inaugural upgrade option.
READ MORE