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Early Muncie M20 and M21 Bearing and Synchronizer Kit for 1963-1965 GM Vehicles
The Yukon Gear YUKZMBK117WS is a complete bearing kit with synchronizer rings engineered specifically for the Muncie M20 and M21 4-speed manual transmissions used in 1963-1965 GM performance vehicles. The early Muncie design used in these years differs in key bearing dimensions and synchronizer specifications from the more widely available 1966-and-later kits, making YUKZMBK117WS the correct choice for a proper rebuild of these early transmissions. Every bearing, race, and synchronizer ring required for a complete M20 or M21 rebuild is included from a single part number.
Key Features
- Specifically engineered for the 1963-1965 Muncie M20 and M21 design
- OEM-specification bearings with correct load ratings for early Muncie dimensions
- Correct friction-material synchronizer rings for the early Muncie synchronizer design
- Complete kit, no multi-supplier sourcing required
- Restores factory-quality shift feel and gear engagement
- Lifetime limited warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | YUKZMBK117WS |
| Brand | Yukon Gear & Axle |
| Transmission Application | Muncie M20 / M21 4-speed |
| Fitment Years | 1963-1965 |
| Includes Synchros | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited |
| UPC | 883584297125 |
Fitment
| Year | Make | Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1964 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1965 | Chevrolet | Corvette | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1964 | Chevrolet | Chevelle | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1965 | Chevrolet | Chevelle | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1963 | Chevrolet | Nova | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1964 | Chevrolet | Nova | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1965 | Chevrolet | Nova | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1963 | Chevrolet | Impala | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1964 | Chevrolet | Impala | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1965 | Chevrolet | Impala | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1964 | Pontiac | GTO | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1965 | Pontiac | GTO | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1963 | Pontiac | Tempest | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1964 | Pontiac | Tempest | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
| 1965 | Pontiac | Tempest | Muncie M20 or M21 4-speed |
What's Included
- Input shaft bearing
- Countershaft (cluster gear) bearings
- Output shaft pilot bearing
- All synchronizer rings
- Snap rings and small parts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a separate kit needed for 1963-1965 versus 1966-and-later Muncie transmissions?
The 1963-1965 Muncie uses different bearing dimensions and synchronizer ring specifications compared to the revised design introduced for 1966. Using the wrong kit results in incorrect bearing clearances and mismatched synchronizer friction surfaces, which causes premature wear and poor shift quality.
How do I confirm I have a 1963-1965 Muncie M20 or M21?
The date code is stamped on the transmission case. Codes from 1963 through early 1966 production identify the early design. The serial number prefix also identifies M20 versus M21. Verify your code before ordering to avoid using an incorrect kit.
Does YUKZMBK117WS include synchronizer rings for all gears?
Yes. All synchronizer rings for every gear position are included in the kit.
Is the M22 Rock Crusher covered by this kit?
No. The M22 was introduced after the early-production Muncie design era covered by this kit. The YUKZMMK116WS covers the 1966-1974 M22.
What warranty does Yukon provide on this bearing kit?
Yukon Gear backs YUKZMBK117WS with a Lifetime Limited Warranty. As a drivetrain rebuild component, consumer protections under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act apply.
Can I reuse the original synchronizer hubs and sliders?
It depends on wear. Hubs and sliders should be inspected carefully for indexing wear, cracks, and shift groove damage. In most cases, worn synchronizer rings are the primary failure point, but badly worn hubs and sliders will quickly destroy new rings.
What gear oil should I use after rebuilding with this kit?
The Muncie requires GM Synchromesh or an equivalent MT-90 fluid. Conventional gear oil and limited-slip additives will damage the brass synchronizer rings in this transmission.
Are the bearings in this kit branded or generic?
Yukon sources bearings to OEM-grade specifications. The bearings are manufactured to meet or exceed the load ratings and dimensional tolerances of the original equipment components.
Installation Notes
- Confirm the transmission date code identifies a 1963-1965 Muncie M20 or M21 before ordering
- Press all bearings into position; do not use a hammer directly on bearing races
- Inspect synchronizer hubs, sliders, and shift forks for wear beyond acceptable limits during disassembly
- Replace all snap rings with new items from the kit
- Fill to capacity with GM Synchromesh or MT-90 equivalent after the rebuild is complete, and check for leaks before returning to service
California Prop 65 Warning
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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