Output shaft locking when attaching 3 speed to adapter

[adambrco]

Hi, The forum has been a great resource while I slowly work through my bronco project. I was hoping someone could help me out on a problem I can't seem to solve.
I picked up a 3 speed manual RAT transmission. It all looks fine but when I bolt the output shaft into the adapter from the transmission I can turn it by hand when the bolts are loose but when I torque them the rear out put shaft locks up completely.
I'm thinking maybe I should rebuild it but before I did I was hoping someone had a specific idea as to what it might be.

Thanks

 

[DirtDonk]

Does the output shaft on the transmission seat all the way in, so that the snap-ring on the bearing seats up flush against the case of the transmission?

If so, and you still have a jammed up box, it's possible that it's not a Bronco gearbox and has a too-long tailshaft.
It's also possible that the roller bearings are already dislodged from the rear shaft being pulled too far out.

When you're trying to do the install are you locking the shift levers in First gear so this does not happen?

Oh, and welcome to the forum by the way! Glad you joined, but sorry to hear you're having a dilemma.
Especially with something that's so awkward to work on!

Good luck.

Paul

 

[adambrco]

Thanks for the help, its off a bronco so I'm sure its the right box, its protruding just slightly beyond the snap ring. I'm thinking the roller bearings are dislodged, while its out I might as well get a rebuild kit and get it right.

 

[DirtDonk]

Sounds good. Shame you have to go through the extra steps, but it'll be nice to have it all new in there where it counts.
I rebuilt mine many years ago when the main input bearing shattered. Most of the components looked brand new even though the box had 100k miles on it already. Amazing what changing the oil now and then can do for the life of a gearbox!

Back then every part I needed totaled up to about 45 bucks. I bet it's more like 150-200 now!

Good luck

Paul