I came across a T-18 tranny and wanted to see if anyone is using this, and how hard it is to put in. I know it is 1" longer than the stock 3-speeds, so some type of modification might have to happen.

Appears to use the same adapter as the NP435 transmission, or so it would seem from the Bronco vendor websites. Doesn't look to be any more complicated than the NP435 install either. Not sure how the gearing compares.

the only big difference i know is you may have to lengthen your front driveshaft and shorten your rear, and maybe a little crossmember modification

The other down side to the T-18 is that the first gear isn't as low as the NP435. Unless that thing is a screaming deal I'd hold out for a cheap NP. You can find them all over the place for less than $100.

Does the NP435 take as much modification, or does it basically fit right in.

The NP doesn't take much modification at all. The 6-cyl tail housing, cut the tranny hole and if you don't have a body lift, flip the crossmember bushings so the thick one is on the bottom & the trans rests on the thin bushings.

It sounds like a my be better off with an NP 435, not nearly as much modification, especially not wanting to change out drive lines.

Super happy with my NP435. Only thing I would do is add a 1" body lift (starting to think this will be the case with any bronco I do for a little more freedom). It sits right up there and makes it a little difficult to get the T-case out. Not sure if my bushings are as above.... Great recommendation!

Matt

I did an NP435 swap in my '73 a bunch of years ago. Fairly easy, all things considering. The body lift on the '71 I have now makes accessing the trans and transfer case about 1000x easier.