1988 XJ Transmission replacement

[JeepOnly]

I have a 5 speed manual transmission that needs to be replaced on my 1988 Cherokee. I want a more reliable and strong transmission, what would be a good choice for this and who would have the best price? I have the IL 6 engine. Any suggestions are welcomed.

[4.3LXJ]

Tim, unless you are willing to do some fabrication and adapt non Jeep transmissions to your Jeep, you have limited options. The one you have, the AX-15 is considered a pretty good transmission. I have rebuilt one and as far as I am concerned, they are stout enough for the 4.0L six. But if you want one that is an upgrade that bolts in, then the NV3550 is the only bolt in option. I believe they are found in the 2000 and up Jeep XJ and TJs.

[JeepOnly]

Thanks Steve I was looking at the NV3550, is this a straight bolt on or will a few mods need to be made? Due to my lack of time (I have a special needs son) a local mechanic's shop (they have a good reputation) is dong the work. They are replacing my fuse block due to the left half being shorted out, front end work control arms and such and brake master cylinder. I'll google the NV3550 to research it more. What it will come down to is which is less costly a rebuild or replacement,

[4.3LXJ]

Advance Adapters, has a rebuilt one for about $1900. I am sure you can do better than that depending what you want

[XJ Wheeler]

The '88 should have the Peugeot BA-10 5 speed trans. It's known for issues and expensive repairs. It was only offered from '87-89, thankfully.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[JeepOnly]

It did have that and I had to replace it about 5 years ago with a used one, I'm not exactly sure which one I have so I'll check to see then decide which is most cost effective, rebuild or replace. If it is the BA-10 then I will replace it with the AX-15. I under stand there is a AX5 and AX15 is there way to tell them apart? Thanks guys for your help.