1986 Jeep Comanche Manual Transmission

The 1986 Jeep Comanche features rugged manual transmission options designed for optimal performance and durability. Available with either the AX-4 4-speed or AX-5 5-speed manual transmissions, this compact pickup truck delivers reliable shifting, excellent torque handling, and enhanced control for both on-road and off-road driving conditions. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical details.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Gear Ratios and Operation 3. Shifting Patterns 4. Fluid Requirements 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Clutch System 7. Common Issues 8. Troubleshooting Guide 9. Transmission Removal/Installation 10. Warranty Information 11. Technical Support

Transmission Specifications

Key components: Manual transmission assembly, shift linkage, clutch system, and related components.

Feature	Description
Transmission Models	AX-4 (4-speed), AX-5 (5-speed)
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.93, 2nd: 2.33, 3rd: 1.45, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.85 (AX-5 only)
Reverse Ratio	4.74:1
Case Material	Aluminum alloy
Lubricant Capacity	3.0 quarts (2.8 liters)
Fluid Type	GL-4 75W-90 gear oil
Shift Pattern	5-speed: H-pattern with reverse left and up
Clutch Type	Single dry disc, diaphragm spring
Input Shaft	10 spline
Output Shaft	21 spline

Gear Ratios and Operation

Understanding gear ratios and proper shifting techniques for optimal performance.

First Gear (3.93:1): For heavy loads and steep inclines
Second Gear (2.33:1): General acceleration and city driving
Third Gear (1.45:1): Highway merging and moderate speeds
Fourth Gear (1.00:1): Direct drive for fuel efficiency
Fifth Gear (0.85:1): Overdrive for highway cruising (AX-5 only)

WARNING! Do not force shifts; use clutch fully. Avoid downshifting at high RPMs.

Shifting Patterns

Standard H-pattern shift configuration for smooth gear changes.

5-speed pattern: Reverse (left and up), 1st (left and down), 2nd (left and up), 3rd (center and down), 4th (center and up), 5th (right and up)
4-speed pattern: Reverse (left and up), 1st (left and down), 2nd (left and up), 3rd (center and down), 4th (center and up)
Reverse gear lockout: Lift collar or press down to engage reverse
Proper technique: Fully depress clutch, shift smoothly, release clutch gradually

CAUTION! Always come to complete stop before engaging reverse gear.

Fluid Requirements

Type: GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
Capacity: 3.0 quarts (2.8 liters)
Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Drain Plug: 3/8-inch square drive
Fill Plug: 1/2-inch square drive
Inspection: Check for leaks monthly
Temperature Range: -40°F to 300°F operating temperature
Alternative: Synthetic GL-4 for extreme conditions

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and optimal performance.

Every 3,000 miles: Check fluid level, inspect for leaks

Every 15,000 miles: Inspect shift linkage, check clutch operation

Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, inspect mounts

Every 60,000 miles: Replace clutch components if needed, check synchronizers

Transmission: Fluid level check, linkage adjustment, mount inspection. Clutch: Pedal free play (1-1.5 inches), hydraulic fluid level, bearing inspection.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system with master cylinder, slave cylinder, and release bearing.

Clutch pedal: Depress fully for gear changes
Master cylinder: Mounted on firewall, connects to pedal
Slave cylinder: Mounted on transmission bellhousing
Release bearing: Engages pressure plate fingers
Pressure plate: Spring-loaded, provides clamping force
Clutch disc: Splined to transmission input shaft

Tip: Bleed hydraulic system if clutch feels spongy or engagement point changes.

Common Issues

Typical problems encountered with 1986 Comanche manual transmissions.

Hard shifting: Worn synchronizers or incorrect fluid
Gear grinding: Clutch not fully disengaging
Jumping out of gear: Worn detents or shift forks
Noise in neutral: Input shaft bearing wear
Leaking fluid: Worn seals or damaged case
Stuck in gear: Bent shift rods or internal damage
Clutch slippage: Worn disc or pressure plate
Vibration: Worn transmission mount or unbalanced driveshaft

WARNING! Address transmission issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Accessibility Features

Shift knob indicators and reverse lockout for safe operation. No electronic aids - pure mechanical control.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard to shift into gear	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level, adjust clutch, bleed system
Gear grinding	Clutch not disengaging	Check hydraulic system, adjust pedal
Jumping out of gear	Worn detents/forks	Inspect internal components, replace worn parts
Transmission noise	Low fluid, bearing wear	Check fluid, inspect bearings
Fluid leaks	Worn seals, cracked case	Replace seals, repair case damage

Reset: No electronic reset required - mechanical system only.

Service: Qualified transmission specialist recommended for internal repairs.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured to meet 1986 FMVSS standards. EPA certified for emissions compliance. Copyright © 1986 American Motors Corporation; Jeep is a registered trademark. For technical support, contact Jeep dealership or certified transmission specialists. Replacement parts must meet OEM specifications.

Technical Support

For transmission-related issues, consult with certified Jeep technicians. Genuine parts recommended for optimal performance and longevity. Technical service bulletins available through Jeep dealership network.

Support: Contact local Jeep dealership or transmission specialist

Parts: Use genuine Mopar components for best results