'76 CJ5 T-18 transfer case/transmission shimming from factory?

From what I understand, CJ5's with factory t-18's were shimmed from the factory. Mine has shim's and a bar stock between the skidplate and the frame. I've had this jeep for over 26 years and I cant remember if I added anything to the skid plate when I did my lift umpteen years ago. I'd like to know what the factory shimming was. I've been told about an inch which is just about where it is right now. I was going to remove the shims due the fact that I'm going with a CV (double cardan) drive shaft in the rear, but being the t-18 is tall and will interfere with the tub, I'm guessing I'm just going to keep the shims in. This is what came out, can someone help me figure out if this looks like it came from the factory with shims and bar stock? Options for removing interference i.e. cutting tub were stick comes out. I don't really want to do this, I'd rather leave the shims in and deal with the inch of lowered skid plate, unless it can be done cleanly. I would like to hear from people that have dealt with this and what they did, thanks.

 

Parts book says that the '76-80 CJ with 4-speed uses 8 each 5355565 spacers between the engine rear support cross member and the frame.

 

Thanks, what parts book is that?

 

Jeep factory parts book, 1974-80. Same as what they used at the Jeep dealership parts counters. Available for purchase if you want one, ie http://www.bjsoffroad.com/prod-683.htm

 

110.00, yikes, I'll try the local library, thanks!

 

The other option to shimming or cutting the floor is a body lift. It's not too big of a project and you probably are ready for new body mounts anyway. Just a thought. I have a Ford T18, body lift and no shims between the cross-member and frame.

 

You get a modest discount at BJ's if you are an IFSJA or FSJN member; drops to $93. IFSJA can be hard to join, but FSJN is easy. http://fsjnetwork.com/forum/index.php - they have the TSMs too.