Flat RV tow ? Gen 1 T/C case swapped into a newer Gen ?

[CCRaider]

So I currently flat tow a couple of SWB Gen 1 Raiders behind my RV, a 88 auto with a 2.6, and a 88 2.6 with a 5 speed. Both engines need a rebuild, ones low compression and the other blew a head gasket. Reading all the Mitsu forums for days leads me to the conclusion the Gen 2 and above are not flat tow capable anymore because of the newer transfer case (no neutral ).

I’m wondering if a Gen 1 transfer case can be swapped into a later Generation Montero ? Older case and freewheeling hubs may be possible ? Would the computer throw codes which an early T/C swap ? The 2.6 are pretty gutless uphill and moving to a later Gen would be preferred. Anyone ever swapped a early T/C to a later Gen ?

( Great forum btw, spend hours getting a Mitsu education !)

 

[lordtrunks]

You can put manual hubs on the gen 2's and just unbolt the rear drive shaft when towing and tie it up on the frame. Another option is to get a driveshaft disconnect which any driveshaft shop can Do for you

 

[Toasty]

It's not that Gen 2's don't have a neutral in the T-case it's that automatic trucks don't have a neutral. Gen 2 Manual has a T-case neutral, its used for the PTO as well. You can remove the shift rail and make a neutral position on an auto T-case but you can't easily adapt a manual T-case to an automatic. It would be easier to swap a Gen 1 auto case if you have one with a neutral detent (none of mine ever did). It requires some real work and dedication, same as swapping a Jeep T-Case.

 

[Toasty]

Like lordtrunks said though, the easiest and cheapest option is a rear driveshaft disconnect.

 

[CCRaider]

Thanks for the feedback.
Looks like I may be rebuilding one of the SWB’s I have, they’re pretty light to tow compared to the Gen 2 weight it seems.
I headed to AZ to pick up a clean low mile Gen 1 again, called the seller twice and told him I was coming, drove two days to get it and he sold it a couple hours before I got there. Major frustration so I’m leaning toward a rebuild after that clusterfawk.