The Jeep NV3550 transmission is a stout, well-proven 5-speed manual transmission for the off-road driving enthusiast , and it still works great for daily driving as well. The NV3550 transmission by New Venture Gear features a cast iron case for durability under hard use, and an aluminum top cover to save weight where structural rigidity matters less. The transmission features fully synchronized gears on all 5 forward speeds (with unsynchronized reverse, standard for manual transmissions of the era) to enhance smooth shifting. When you upgrade to this Jeep NV3550 transmission for sale here, you enhance your Jeep's performance and durability , making this a popular choice for Jeep enthusiasts seeking reliability and a superior driving experience.
The NV3550 is one of the more reliable 5-speed manual transmissions in the Jeep lineup, popular among off-road enthusiasts and Jeep daily drivers alike. This New Venture Gear-manufactured transmission features:
This combination of cast iron strength and aluminum weight savings makes the NV3550 a good match for Jeep Wrangler TJ, Cherokee XJ, and Liberty KJ applications.
The primary application for the NV3550. Specifications in Wrangler TJ:
The NV3550 in Wrangler TJ application is the most commonly sourced variant.
Late-production XJ Cherokee applications:
The XJ Cherokee NV3550 is functionally similar to the Wrangler TJ NV3550 but with some application-specific differences (bell housing, output configuration, shifter location).
The Liberty KJ replaced the XJ Cherokee in 2002 and used the NV3550 in early production:
The NV3550 replaced the Aisin AX-15 in Wrangler TJ applications starting in 2000:
| Feature | AX-15 (1988-1999 Wrangler) | NV3550 (2000-2004 Wrangler) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Aisin (Japan) | New Venture Gear (USA) |
| Speeds | 5 forward | 5 forward |
| Case Material | Cast iron | Cast iron |
| Torque Capacity | ~300 lb-ft | ~300 lb-ft |
| Synchronization | Fully synchronized | Fully synchronized |
| Common Issues | Synchronizer wear at high mileage | Generally reliable |
| Off-Road Reputation | Strong | Good |
The AX-15 and NV3550 are NOT directly interchangeable , different bell housing patterns, mounts, and shifter locations. Both serve well in 4.0L Wrangler applications.
The NV3550 was replaced by the NSG370 in 2005+ Wrangler applications:
| Feature | NV3550 (2000-2004) | NSG370 (2005+) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | New Venture Gear | New Venture Gear (Chrysler division) |
| Speeds | 5 forward | 6 forward |
| Case Material | Cast iron | Aluminum |
| Torque Capacity | ~300 lb-ft | ~400 lb-ft |
| Overdrive | 5th gear overdrive | 5th AND 6th gear overdrives |
| Highway Efficiency | Good | Better (with 6th gear) |
The NSG370 added a 6th gear for better highway efficiency and was generally considered a step up in performance, though some traditionalists prefer the NV3550's cast iron case.
Honest disclosure of known service items:
The NV3550 is generally durable when maintained per Jeep specifications with proper transmission fluid. Service interval: fluid every 30,000-50,000 miles, more frequent for off-road use.
Here at Vaz Auto Solutions, you'll find this Jeep NV3550 transmission for sale at the most reasonable price possible, with all 5 forward gears tested, reverse confirmed, synchronizer function assessed, and donor vehicle documented.
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Jeep Wrangler TJ | 2000-2004 with 4.0L inline-6 (most common NV3550 application) |
| Jeep Cherokee XJ | 1999-2001 with 4.0L inline-6 (late XJ production) |
| Jeep Liberty KJ | 2002-2004 (early Liberty production) |
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Jeep 4.0L AMC Inline-6 (242 cid) | Primary pairing in Wrangler TJ and Cherokee XJ , 190 HP / 235 lb-ft |
| Other Liberty KJ Engines | Liberty applications mate to KJ-specific engines |
| Transmission Type | 5 speed manual |
|---|---|
| Designation | NV3550 |
| Manufacturer | New Venture Gear |
| Speeds | 5 forward + reverse |
| Construction | Cast iron case | aluminum top cover |
| Synchronization | Fully synchronized forward gears (5 synchronizers) | unsynchronized reverse |
| Torque Capacity | 300 lb-ft |
| Predecessor | Aisin AX-15 (in Wrangler application) |
| Successor | NSG370 6-speed manual (2005+ Wrangler) |
| Production Years | 1999-2004 |
| Fluid Type | Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) or 75W-90 GL-4 per Jeep service manual |
| Direct Fit | Jeep Wrangler TJ (2000-2004) | Jeep Cherokee XJ (1999-2001) | Jeep Liberty KJ (2002-2004) |
| Common Engine Pairing | Jeep 4.0L AMC inline-6 (Wrangler/Cherokee) |
| Drive Configuration | RWD primary with transfer case for 4WD |
| Price | $1 | 299.00 |
Contact (240) 301-0095 within 15 days.
