Jeep AX15 Transmission for Sale | OEM Used Aisin Warner 5-Speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive 5th Gear (0.79:1) and Synchronized Reverse
$1,499.00
At a Glance
- Condition: OEM used, all 5 forward gears tested
- Availability: In stock, Jeep AX15 transmissions available
- Shipping: Free shipping to all 50 states via freight pallet, 5 to 10 business days
- Donor Jeep confirmed (Wrangler YJ / Wrangler TJ / Cherokee XJ / Comanche MJ)
- Engine pairing documented (4.0L I6 / 2.5L I4 / 4.2L I6)
- Synchronized reverse engagement verified (distinguishing AX15 feature)
- Overdrive 5th gear (0.79:1) engagement confirmed
- Synchro condition assessed (brass synchro wear verified)
- Input shaft verified (10 spline, 1.125 inch diameter)
- Output shaft verified (23 spline, 1.375 inch diameter)
- Bellhousing pattern confirmed (Jeep AMC / Chrysler specific)
- Aluminum case inspected for cracks
- Backed by a 15 day replacement warranty against internal defects
Description
About the Jeep AX15 Transmission
This robust gearbox was popular in Jeep Wranglers and Cherokees from 1988 to 1999, known for its durability and smooth shifting. Whether replacing a worn-out transmission or upgrading from the less capable AX5 (4-cylinder 5-speed) or older 4-speed transmissions, this AX15 transmission for sale at Part Nests offers improved gear ratios and a stout Aisin Warner design that can handle the demands of both on-road driving and off-road adventures.
About the AX15 Heritage
The Jeep AX15 transmission is a highly regarded manual gearbox used in Jeep vehicles from 1988 to 1999. Known for its durability and smooth shifting, the AX15 is a five-speed transmission featuring synchronized reverse gear (a notable feature for the era) and overdrive fifth gear (0.79:1), making it ideal for both on-road and off-road driving. The robust Aisin Warner design and compatibility with various Jeep models , Wrangler YJ and TJ, Cherokee XJ, and Comanche MJ , make it a popular choice among Jeep enthusiasts. Because the AX15 is essentially the same fundamental transmission as the Toyota R150 (with a Jeep-specific bellhousing), it benefits from proven Aisin engineering and durability.
Jeep / Aisin Manual Transmission Family Context
The AX15 (this listing) is the medium-duty Aisin Warner 5-speed manual used in Jeep applications. For buyers comparing Jeep and heavy-duty manual transmissions: the AX15 (this listing, 280 lb-ft rating, 97 lbs aluminum case, fits Wrangler YJ / TJ / Cherokee XJ / Comanche MJ 1988-1999 with 4.0L I6 / 2.5L I4 / 4.2L I6 engines) is the Aisin-engineered Jeep medium-duty 5-speed. For heavy-duty pickup applications requiring much higher torque capacity, the NV4500 (our vaz152 listing, New Venture Gear 5-speed with 460 lb-ft rating and 5.61:1 granny low) is the diesel-pickup-grade alternative for Dodge Ram / Ford F-Super Duty / Chevy HD applications. The AX15 and NV4500 serve completely different applications: AX15 for lighter-duty Jeep service (Wrangler / Cherokee / Comanche); NV4500 for heavy-duty diesel pickup service (Cummins 5.9, 7.3 Power Stroke). Despite some confusion in aftermarket listings, the NV4500 was NOT a factory option in any Jeep Wrangler / Cherokee / Comanche vehicle , those vehicles used the AX15 (or AX5 for 4-cylinder applications, NV3550 for TJ Wrangler 2000+).
Key Features of the AX15
- Overdrive 5th Gear (0.79:1): Enhances fuel efficiency and reduces engine wear during highway driving.
- Synchronized Reverse Gear: Facilitates smoother engagement, reducing gear grinding common with non-synchronized reverse designs.
- Aluminum Case: Lightweight (just 97 lbs total transmission weight) yet sturdy, aiding in heat dissipation and durability.
- Interchangeability: Compatible with a range of Jeep transfer cases (NP207, NP231 Command-Trac, NP242 Selec-Trac, NP249 Quadra-Trac) and Jeep engines (4.0L I6, 4.2L I6, 2.5L I4).
- Rebuildable Design: Easy to service and rebuild. Rebuild kits readily available from Aisin, Mopar, and aftermarket suppliers (Cottman, Allstate Gear).
- Wide Gear Ratio Spread: Balance between low-end torque (3.83:1 first) and high-speed cruising (0.79:1 overdrive). 4.84:1 ratio spread gives wide flexibility.
- Toyota R150 Heritage: Shares fundamental architecture with the Toyota R150 manual, benefiting from Aisin proven design used in millions of Toyota pickup, 4Runner, and Tacoma applications.
Compatibility: Jeep Applications
Vehicles:
- Jeep Cherokee (XJ) 1988 to 1999 with 4.0L I6 or 2.5L I4
- Jeep Comanche (MJ) 1988 to 1992 (Cherokee-based pickup truck)
- Jeep Wrangler (YJ) 1989 to 1995 with 4.2L I6 or 2.5L I4
- Jeep Wrangler (TJ) 1997 to 1999 with 4.0L I6 (replaced by NV3550 in 2000)
Engines:
- Jeep 4.0L Inline-6 (AMC / Jeep “PowerTech” 242 cu in, 190 to 220 HP, the legendary Jeep I6)
- Jeep 2.5L Inline-4 (AMC / Jeep 150 cu in, 121 to 130 HP)
- Jeep 4.2L Inline-6 (AMC 258 cu in, predecessor to the 4.0L)
Note on TJ Wrangler 2000+ models: The AX15 was replaced by the NV3550 in TJ Wranglers starting in model year 2000. If you have a TJ from 2000 to 2006, you need an NV3550, not an AX15. Earlier 1997-1999 TJ Wranglers use the AX15.
AX15 vs Other Jeep 5-Speed Manuals
| Transmission | Application | Torque Rating | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AX15 (this listing) | XJ / YJ / TJ / MJ 1988-1999 | 280 lb-ft | 97 lbs | Aisin Warner, syncro reverse, the gold standard |
| AX5 | XJ / YJ 4-cyl applications | 170 lb-ft | ~85 lbs | 4-cylinder only, weaker than AX15 |
| NV3550 | TJ Wrangler 2000-2004 | 300 lb-ft | ~110 lbs | Replaced AX15 in TJ |
| NV1500 | Dodge Dakota | 230 lb-ft | 75-80 lbs | Different chassis, NOT for Jeep |
| NSG-370 | JK Wrangler 2007-2018 | 350 lb-ft | ~140 lbs | 6-speed, replaces NV3550 |
Choose AX15 for: XJ Cherokee restoration, YJ Wrangler rebuild, TJ Wrangler 1997-1999, MJ Comanche projects, off-road builds with 4.0L I6.
Vehicle Compatibility
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee XJ (1988-1999) | 4.0L I6 or 2.5L I4 |
| Jeep Comanche MJ (1988-1992) | Cherokee-based pickup truck |
| Jeep Wrangler YJ (1989-1995) | 4.2L I6 or 2.5L I4 |
| Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997-1999) | 4.0L I6 (NOT 2000-2006 TJ which uses NV3550) |
| Engine Compatibility | Jeep 4.0L I6 (primary), 2.5L I4, 4.2L I6 |
Why Buy From Part Nests
- Donor Jeep and engine pairing documented
- All 5 forward gears tested
- Synchronized reverse verified (distinguishing AX15 feature)
- Overdrive 5th gear engagement confirmed
- Synchro condition assessed
- Aluminum case inspected
- Free freight pallet delivery to all 50 states
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects
- Jeep XJ / YJ / TJ experienced support team
- Call (855) 634-4447 to confirm Jeep AX15 transmission (Aisin Warner 5-speed manual with overdrive 0.79:1 5th gear and synchronized reverse, 280 lb-ft rating, 97 lbs aluminum case, shares architecture with Toyota R150), donor Jeep (Wrangler YJ 1989-1995, Wrangler TJ 1997-1999 , NOT 2000-2006 TJ which uses NV3550 instead, Cherokee XJ 1988-1999, or Comanche MJ 1988-1992), engine pairing (Jeep 4.0L I6 PowerTech primary application, 2.5L I4 AMC 150 cu in, or 4.2L I6 AMC 258 cu in predecessor), input shaft 10-spline 1.125 inch diameter, output shaft 23-spline 1.375 inch diameter, bellhousing pattern (Jeep AMC / Chrysler specific), and Jeep / Aisin manual transmission family context (AX15 medium-duty Jeep 5-speed at 280 lb-ft vs NV4500 per vaz152 heavy-duty diesel pickup 5-speed at 460 lb-ft, different applications and torque ratings) before ordering
15 Day Replacement Warranty
Every used Jeep AX15 transmission purchased through Part Nests carries a 15 day replacement warranty starting on the delivery date.
What Is Covered
- Internal defects already present when the transmission arrives
- Gear failures within 15 days from installation on any of the 5 forward gears
- Synchronized reverse engagement failures within 15 days from installation
- Overdrive 5th gear (0.79:1) engagement failures within 15 days from installation
- Brass synchro failures within 15 days from installation
- Input shaft or output shaft bearing failures within 15 days from installation
- Aluminum case crack failures not disclosed at shipping
- Top cover gasket failures within 15 days from installation
- Incorrect bellhousing pattern shipped (Jeep AMC / Chrysler mismatch) or incorrect spline configuration due to an error on our end
What Is Not Covered
- Damage caused during installation
- Damage from incorrect transmission fluid (AX15 requires Mopar / Pennzoil Synchromesh manual transmission fluid or equivalent GL-4 spec, NOT ATF)
- Damage from neglected fluid maintenance or extended drain intervals
- Damage from clutch operation issues (slipping, dragging, incorrect master / slave cylinder adjustment)
- Damage from overloading beyond 280 lb-ft torque capacity (factory rating)
- Damage from aftermarket engine power increases exceeding AX15 rating (high-output 4.0L Stroker builds, supercharger / turbo conversions)
- Damage from incorrect bellhousing alignment at installation
- Damage from incorrect transfer case adapter (must match NP207 / NP231 / NP242 / NP249 transfer case)
- External components (clutch assembly, hydraulic master / slave cylinder, bellhousing, driveshaft, transmission crossmember, shift linkage, transfer case, fluids drained for transit) unless itemized
- Labor expenses of any kind
To start a warranty claim, reach us within 15 days of delivery at (855) 634-4447.
- All 5 Forward Gears Tested: Plus synchronized reverse engagement verified
- Donor Jeep Confirmed: Wrangler YJ / TJ, Cherokee XJ, or Comanche MJ documented
- Engine Pairing Documented: 4.0L I6, 2.5L I4, or 4.2L I6
- Synchronized Reverse Verified: Distinguishing AX15 feature confirmed operational
- Overdrive 5th Gear Confirmed: 0.79:1 engagement verified
- 15 Day Replacement Cover: Internal defects protected from delivery onward
Additional information
| bellhousing-to-tailshaft-length | 22 inches |
|---|---|
| fluid-capacity | 2.75 quarts |
| fluid-type | ATF+4 (Mopar specification) or compatible Mercon / Dexron ATF |
| gear-ratios | 1st: 3.83, 2nd: 2.33, 3rd: 1.44, 4th: 1.00 (direct), 5th: 0.79 (overdrive), Reverse: 4.22 |
| input-shaft | 10 splines, 1.125 inches diameter |
| output-shaft | 23 splines, 1.375 inches diameter |
| overall-length | 24 inches |
| torque-rating | 280 lb-ft |
| weight | 97 pounds (lightweight aluminum case) |
| type | Manual Transmission |
| model | AX15 (also written AX-15) |
| maker | Aisin Warner |
| speeds | 5 forward speeds with overdrive 5th and synchronized reverse |
| case-material | Aluminum alloy |
| compatibility | 1999 Jeep AX15 Transmission (covers 1988-1999 production range) |
| price | $1, 499.00 |
Aisin Warner 5-speed manual transmission for Jeep applications 1988-1999. The AX15 is a medium-duty 5-speed manual transmission produced by Aisin Warner (Aisin Seiki affiliated Japanese transmission manufacturer) and used exclusively in Jeep vehicles from 1988 to 1999. Features overdrive 5th gear (0.79:1), synchronized reverse gear (a notable feature for the era), aluminum case (97 lbs total weight), and full synchronization across all forward gears. Rated for 280 lb-ft of input torque. The AX15 shares fundamental architecture with the Toyota R150 manual transmission, benefiting from proven Aisin design used in millions of Toyota pickup, 4Runner, and Tacoma applications worldwide.
Wrangler YJ / TJ (early), Cherokee XJ, and Comanche MJ. Jeep Cherokee XJ (1988-1999) with 4.0L I6 or 2.5L I4: the dominant AX15 application, the legendary 4.0L PowerTech I6 paired with AX15 is the iconic Jeep manual transmission combination. Jeep Comanche MJ (1988-1992): Cherokee-based pickup truck. Jeep Wrangler YJ (1989-1995) with 4.2L I6 or 2.5L I4. Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997-1999) with 4.0L I6, replaced by NV3550 in 2000. Important: TJ Wranglers from 2000-2006 use the NV3550 manual, NOT the AX15; early 1997-1999 TJ Wranglers do use the AX15.
Jeep 4.0L I6 (primary), 2.5L I4, and 4.2L I6. Jeep 4.0L Inline-6 (AMC / Jeep PowerTech, 242 cu in displacement, 190 to 220 HP): the legendary Jeep I6 used in XJ Cherokee, TJ Wrangler, and ZJ / WJ Grand Cherokee , the primary AX15 application and one of the most reliable inline-6 engines ever produced. Jeep 2.5L Inline-4 (AMC / Jeep, 150 cu in, 121-130 HP): the lower-output 4-cylinder Jeep engine. Jeep 4.2L Inline-6 (AMC, 258 cu in): the predecessor to the 4.0L, used in earlier YJ Wranglers and Cherokees. The AX15 bellhousing pattern matches the AMC / Jeep / Chrysler engine block bolt pattern.
Different torque ratings and applications: AX15 lighter-duty Jeep, NV4500 heavy-duty diesel pickup. The AX15 (this listing) is rated for 280 lb-ft and used in Jeep Wrangler / Cherokee / Comanche applications with the 4.0L I6, 2.5L I4, or 4.2L I6. The NV4500 (our vaz152 listing) is rated for 460 lb-ft and used in heavy-duty diesel pickup applications (Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500, Ford F-Super Duty 1996-1998, Chevy / GMC C/K 2500 HD / 3500 HD). The NV4500 was NOT a factory option in any Jeep Wrangler / Cherokee / Comanche; aftermarket listings claiming Jeep NV4500 fitment are incorrect. For Jeep applications, the AX15 (this listing) is the correct factory 5-speed.
Distinguishing AX15 feature: smooth reverse gear engagement without grinding. Most manual transmissions of the era used non-synchronized reverse gears, which require the vehicle to be at a complete stop before reverse can engage smoothly (and frequently produce gear grinding even at a stop if the gears do not align). The AX15 features fully synchronized reverse gear, meaning the reverse synchronizer cone smoothly matches the gear speeds during engagement. Benefits: easier reverse engagement, less gear grinding, less wear on the reverse gear teeth. The synchronized reverse is one of the AX15 distinguishing features compared to older 5-speed manuals (e.g., the AX5 4-cylinder Jeep transmission has non-synchronized reverse). We verify synchronized reverse engagement on every AX15 we ship.
AX15 shares fundamental architecture with the Toyota R150 manual transmission. The AX15 was designed by Aisin Warner (Japanese transmission specialist, affiliated with Aisin Seiki) using the same fundamental architecture as the Toyota R150 manual transmission family used in millions of Toyota pickup, 4Runner, and Tacoma applications worldwide. Differences: AX15 uses a Jeep-specific bellhousing pattern matching AMC / Jeep / Chrysler engines; R150 uses a Toyota-specific bellhousing matching Toyota engines. Common architecture: gear ratios, synchronizers, output shaft design, internal components, durability characteristics. The Toyota R150 heritage is a major contributor to the AX15 reliability reputation , it benefits from millions of Toyota R150 service hours and Aisin engineering refinement.
No. The 2000+ TJ Wrangler uses the NV3550 manual, NOT the AX15. The 1997-1999 TJ Wrangler does use the AX15, but starting in model year 2000 Jeep switched to the NV3550 (New Venture Gear 3550) 5-speed manual for the TJ Wrangler. The NV3550 has a different bellhousing pattern, different gear ratios, different output shaft configuration, and different mounting. For 2000-2006 TJ Wranglers, you need an NV3550, not an AX15. For 1997-1999 TJ Wranglers, the AX15 is correct. For 2007+ JK Wranglers, the NSG-370 6-speed is used. Confirm your specific year and chassis when ordering.
No. There is no core return required.
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