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

  • August 22, 2025
Day 4 at the Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion: A Rolling Showcase of Builds and Ideas
A rolling showcase of Wranglers, Gladiators, CJs, and more — Day 4 highlights how the builds at Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion spark ideas and inspiration.
READ MORE
  • August 21, 2025
  • 3 min read
Seven Slot Dispatch 8.22.2025
Weekly Jeep-related news items from around the industry and community.
READ MORE
  • August 21, 2025
  • 4 min read
Day 3 at the Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion: People, Passion and Purpose
From family traditions to first-timers, Jeepers are what keeps this event growing. And its not always about the products.
READ MORE
  • August 20, 2025
  • 3 min read
Day 2 at the Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion: Move-In Day
Vendors, Jeeps, and energy fill the LeConte Center grounds as move-in day transforms anticipation into reality.
READ MORE
  • August 19, 2025
  • 4 min read
Buc-ee’s, Jeeps, and Smoky Mountain Vibes: Day One of the Jeep Invasion
From Beaver Nuggets to bumper badges, Buc-ee’s is more than a pit stop—it’s where the Jeep community gathers on the way to Pigeon Forge.
READ MORE
  • August 15, 2025
  • 7 min read
Quadratec Celebrates 35 Years Serving Jeep Enthusiasts
Company still focusing on its core tenets: better and faster service, and better pricing.
READ MORE
  • August 15, 2025
  • 4 min read
Seven Slot Dispatch 8.15.2025
Weekly Jeep-related news items from around the industry and community.
READ MORE
  • August 14, 2025
  • 3 min read
Expert Review: Lost Canyon Under Seat Security Box
Stealth Security and Trail-Ready Durability for Your Jeep’s Most Vulnerable Spot.
READ MORE
  • August 12, 2025
  • 7 min read
When Should You Upgrade Your Jeep's Exhaust Kit?
Aftermarket exhaust kits normally offer better materials, wider piping and better flow — all of which translate to more power and efficiency over the factory version.
READ MORE