Comparing the Strengths and Weaknesses of Dana 18 vs. Dana 20 Transmissions

The Dana 20 is an improved version of the Dana 18 found in Jeep CJs, with strengthened output shafts and better overall strength.

Dana 18 Vs Dana 20

The Dana 18 and Dana 20 are two distinct transfer cases used in Jeep rigs. They have some similarities, but also have different features that make them suitable for different Jeep applications. Comparing the Dana 18 vs. the Dana 20 reveals a few key differences.

The Dana 18 is a three speed, part-time case, with an aluminum body and side shift options. It is popular for off-roading applications because of its mechanical simplicity and high-torque capacity. The Dana 20 is a much sturdier, full-time cast iron case which has synchronized shifting capabilities with 2 low range speeds and synchronized front-wheel drive. It has more torque than the Dana 18 and is favored in heavy-duty off-road use due to its burly construction.

Though both share a common axle spline count and output shaft size, they are designed to accommodate different driveshaft lengths and U-joints varieties when transferring power from the transmission to the rear wheels. The longer output shaft of the Dana 20 enables it to integrate with different components like overdrive units while researching much less internal force on its output shafts, making it an overall simpler piece of equipment to use in Jeep trails.

In conclusion, when looking at the comparison between the Dana 18 and the Dana 20, there are many differences that must be considered when deciding which transfer case would best suit your Jeep application. The larger size of the Dana 20 makes it ideal for heavy duty off road rigs but also comes with increased weight at higher levels of torque capability as well as differences in axle spline counts between both cases which must be taken into account when deciding between them.

Dana 18 Vs Dana 20

The Jeep Dana 18 and Dana 20 are two different transfer cases that have been used by Jeep in their vehicles for many years. Both transfer cases offer different advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to understand the pros and cons of each type before deciding which one is right for your vehicle.

Advantages of Dana 18

The Dana 18 is a two-speed transfer case that was used in early Jeeps from 1941 to 1971. It is a relatively simple and reliable unit that has a low range reduction ratio of 2.03:1, making it great for off-roading. It also features an aluminum case, which makes it lighter than the Dana 20, although it is not as strong or durable. The Dana 18 also features a manual shift lever, which makes it easier to operate than the more complex electronic shifters found in some modern Jeeps.

Disadvantages of Dana 18

One of the main drawbacks of the Dana 18 is its limited capacity for torque multiplication. This means that when you need extra power for towing or off-roading, the Dana 18 won’t be able to provide as much force as some other transfer cases. Additionally, because of its age, parts for the Dana 18 can be difficult to find and may have to be custom made or sourced from vintage parts suppliers.

Advantages of Dana 20

The Jeep Dana 20 was introduced in 1972 and was used until 1986 in both two-door and four-door Jeeps. The main advantage of this transfer case is its higher torque capacity compared to the earlier model (3:1 instead of 2:1). It also features an aluminum case with a stronger design than the older model, making it more durable and reliable over time. The electronic shift system found on later models makes shifting easier than having to use a manual lever like on earlier models. Additionally, parts for this transfer case are generally more readily available due to its newer production date compared to the older model.

Disadvantages of Dana 20

The main disadvantage with this transfer case is its weight; it’s about twice as heavy as the earlier model due to its larger size and stronger design elements. This can cause problems if you’re trying to reduce weight in your vehicle setup or if you’re dealing with muddy terrain where extra weight adds resistance and slows down your progress. Additionally, due to its heavier construction, wear items like chains may need replacing sooner than they would with lighter models like the older version or even aftermarket transfer cases with lighter construction materials such as aluminum alloys or carbon fiber composites.

Pros and Cons Summary

In summary, both Jeep transfer cases have their advantages and disadvantages depending on what kind of driving conditions you’re dealing with and what type of performance you require from your vehicle setup. The main benefits offered by the Jeep Dana 18 are its simplicity and low range ratio; however it has limited torque capacity which can be problematic if you require extra power for off-roading or heavy loads such as tow vehicles or trailers. On the other hand, the newer model offers higher torque capacity but at a cost; it’s much heavier than earlier versions thus reducing acceleration response times when driving on muddy terrain or sand dunes where additional weight can slow down progress significantly unless additional power is applied through higher revs on steep inclines etc..

Summary For Dana 18

The Jeep Dana 18 is an older two speed automatic transmission that offers simplicity but limited torque capacity when compared to other modern 4×4 transmissions available today; while this may be adequate enough for basic use such as light off-roading or small loads such as trailers/boats etc., if more power is required then a newer model will be necessary in order to meet those demands without sacrificing reliability over time due to wear/tear associated with heavier loads etc.. Parts for this transmission may also be difficult/expensive too source due too its age so keep this in mind when considering purchasing one from vintage suppliers etc..

Summary For Dana 20

The Jeep Dana 20 was introduced in 1972 offering superior torque capacity compared to earlier versions but at an increased weight penalty – making acceleration response times slower especially on muddy terrain where extra weight can cause problems unless additional power is applied through higher revs etc.. This transmission offers greater reliability over time due too its stronger design elements but parts can still be difficult/expensive too source depending on availability at vintage suppliers etc..

Comparison Chart – Differences between Dana 18 & amp;amp ;Dana 20
Below we compare some key specs between both transmissions side by side – highlighting differences between each one:

Specs Comparison Chart: |Dana18|Dana20| ————————– |——|——| Reduction Ratio | 2:1 | 3:1 | Speed | 2-speed | 3speed| Weight (lbs.) | 60lbs | 120lbs| Manual Shift Lever?| Yes | No | Electronic Shifter?| No | Yes | Case Material Type | Alumium Alloy| Aluminum Alloy| Feature Comparison Chart: Features |Dana18|Dana20 —————————————————|——|—— Torque Capacity | Low | High Reliability | High | Higher Manual Shift Lever? | Yes | No Electronic Shifter? | No | Yes Weight | Light Heavy Case Material Type | Alumium Alloy Aluminum Alloy

< h2 > Maintenance – Benefits Of Opting For Right Model Maintenance plays an important role in keeping any vehicle running smoothly regardless if they are Jeeps using either a manual shift lever (as seen with earlier models) or electronic shifters (as seen with later models). With either type however there are certain maintenance tasks that should be done regularly such as checking fluid levels/filling up when needed inspecting drive shafts/u joints checking suspension components etc all these tasks being important regardless whether youre using traditional mechanics (for manual transmissions) or electronic systems (for electronic transmissions). That said heres some key maintenance points for each type below

< h3 > Maintenance For DANA18 When maintaining any DANA18 transmission its important that all fluid levels remain consistent meaning topping up when needed plus ensuring oil filters are changed regularly since these play an important role keeping debris out from entering critical components inside the unit itself thus allowing them run smoothly without issue over time Additional maintenance tasks include lubricating linkages/pins plus visually inspecting drive shafts/u joints regularly since these components deal with higher stresses during operation hence why they should checked at least once every few months Lastly check suspension components regularly since these play an important role not just providing comfort while driving but also helping ensure drivetrain components dont suffer undue stress during operation < h3 > Maintenance For DANA20 When maintaining any DANA20 transmission similar maintenance tasks should still performed such as checking fluid levels plus changing oil filters when needed however since this unit uses electronic shifters there are few additional maintenance tasks required here To begin with inspect wiring harnesses regularly since these can become damaged overtime due corrosion etc thus causing problems down line if left unchecked Secondly inspect suspension components often particularly shock absorbers since these help keep drivetrain components running correctly without suffering undue stresses during operation Finally inspect u joints regularly since these take high stresses during operation hence why they should checked at least once every few months

Weight

The Dana 18 used in Jeeps from 1941 to 1971 was more lightweight than the Dana 20 used from 1972 to 1979. The Dana 18 weighed about 100 lbs, while the Dana 20 weighed approximately 140 lbs. This makes the Dana 18 easier to install, as well as easier to work on if repairs are needed.

Gears

The Dana 18 has two different gear ratios available, while the Dana 20 has three different gear ratios available. The two ratio options for the Dana 18 are 2.46:1 and 2.76:1, while the three ratio options for the Dana 20 are 2.03:1, 2.46:1 and 2.76:1. This means that if youre looking for a higher torque output, then the Dana 20 is a better choice than the Dana 18 due to its wider range of gear ratios.

Axles

The axles of both transfer cases are very similar in design and construction, with only slight differences between them. The axles used on both transfer cases are Spicer-style axles that use U-joints at each end and have an overall diameter of 1 inch (25 mm). However, there is one significant difference between them the axle splines used on each transfer case are different; the Dana 18 uses 23 splines while the Dana 20 uses 26 splines.

Drive Shafts

When it comes to drive shafts, both transfer cases use a Slip Yoke Eliminator (SYE) kit and short drive shafts that work in conjunction with it in order to reduce driveline vibrations caused by drivetrain torque oscillation. However, due to their different gear ratios (as discussed above), each transfer case requires its own unique SYE kit and accompanying short drive shafts meaning that you cannot simply swap out one SYE kit for another when replacing one transfer case with another.

Models

The models of both transfer cases vary depending on vehicle model and year of manufacture; some Jeeps use a model of either transfer case that differs slightly from other models so it is important to research which model your Jeep uses before purchasing any replacement parts or attempting any repairs or upgrades. Generally speaking though, most Jeeps use either a model 18 or model 20 version of either transfer case depending on which year they were manufactured in (e.g., Jeeps manufactured prior to 1972 typically use a model 18 version while those manufactured after that date generally use a model 20 version).

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is the difference between a Dana 18 and a Dana 20?
A: The main difference between the Dana 18 and the Dana 20 is that the Dana 18 is an axle with two-piece axle shafts, while the Dana 20 is an axle with one-piece axle shafts. The Dana 18 has a gear ratio of 3.73:1, while the Dana 20 has a gear ratio of 2.86:1. Additionally, the Dana 18 has a spline count of 23, while the Dana 20 has a spline count of 27.

Q: What are the advantages of using a Dana 18?
A: One advantage of using a Dana 18 is that it is more lightweight than other axles, making it easier to install and maneuver. Additionally, it provides good traction in off-road environments due to its two-piece axle shafts. Finally, it is less expensive than other axles on the market.

Q: What are the disadvantages of using a Dana 18?
A: One disadvantage of using a Dana 18 is that it can be prone to wear and tear due to its two-piece axle shafts. Additionally, its gear ratio may not be ideal for certain applications that require higher torque or speed ratios. Finally, its spline count may not be compatible with certain vehicles or applications that require higher spline counts.

Q: What are the advantages of using a Dana 20?
A: One advantage of using a Dana 20 is that it has one-piece axle shafts which provide better durability and performance than two-piece axles. Additionally, its higher gear ratio provides better torque for climbing hills or pulling heavy loads. Finally, its higher spline count allows for greater compatibility with various applications and vehicles that require higher spline counts.

Q: What are the disadvantages of using a Dana 20?
A: One disadvantage of using a Dana 20 is that it can be more expensive than other axles on the market as well as more difficult to install due to its heavier weight compared to other axles such as the Dana 18. Additionally, its high torque capabilities may not be suitable for certain applications where speed is more important than torque such as drag racing applications. Finally, its one-piece design can make maintenance more difficult compared to two-piece designs such as those found in the case of the Dana 18

The Dana 18 and Dana 20 are both two-speed transfer cases used in Jeep vehicles. The Dana 18 is a lighter and simpler design, but its low range ratio of 2.03:1 makes it inadequate for extreme off-roading. The Dana 20 is heavier and more complex, but its 2.46:1 low range ratio increases its off-road capability. Ultimately, the choice between the two transfer cases depends on the intended use – for standard use, the Dana 18 will suffice, while for more extreme off-roading or towing, the Dana 20 is preferable.