Wait. Sorry if I sound confused, because I am =)
So, I CAN simply slap a new transmission in there, avoiding the messy business of opening a tranny (I hear it's baaad karma), or I CAN'T, and there is no way around tearing the transmission anyways? If at all possible, I'd like to avoid opening a transmission unit. I've seen the schematics, and they look like a bomb went off in a gear factory.
I was under the impression I could remove the tailhousing and add the transfer case, swap the shafts, add the front axle assembly, and the accoutrements then be done (simplifying it, but there). For illustration purposes:
This would be the auto transmission with the transfer case, my desired end-state. My question is, I could add the transfer case or better to just get this entire thing and install it as it is (swap fluids and seals) on the jeep?
I know I am sounding "newbie thinks it's lego", but I want to make sure I got the picture clear before I potentially fn0rk up my favorite ride.
When you said "AW4" = "4x4 model transmission unit"? I am not into the lingo yet. I'm currently at the "look at numbers stage", and hunting for parts, etc. I need a more complete list first, of course. I have seen - online - some front axle assly going for under $500, but there seems to be a scarcity of transfer cases.
P.S.: my refs here are the Haynes Repair Manual #50010