Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 5600 to 4500 Swap Concerns

[FosterW]

Hey All,



My NV5600 is slowly but surely on its way out in more ways then one:{

Which bring me to the thought of swapping in a NV4500 from a '98+ truck. I'm sure its been done before but didn't see anything when searching on here.

So I have a few questions for everyone with some experience.



I know I will need different length driveshafts and a crossmember and transmission mount from a 5spd truck, but does the clutch linkage, and clutch hydraulics match up when swaping in a 4500?



Let me know if you know of anything else I might run into. This is just a feeler thread by the way to see how feasible this swap is. Thank you in advance.

 

[MarkMiller]

Same cross-member, different trans mount. Clutch linkage is all the same. Fricti on plate is different, 4500 uses a 1 1/4 inch input shaft where the 5600 uses a 1 3/8 inch input. The clutch is the same though. Rear d shaft will need to be lengthened 2 inches, front, shortened 2 inches.



I switched from a 4500 to a 5600 in my 99. What a mistake.



To keep your existing clutch and fix a weak spot in the 4500 you can change to the upgraded input shat, it is just thicker and you can retain your existing clutch assembly. Heavy Duty 1 3/8" Input Shaft Upgrade Dodge 5 Speed NV4500 Manual Transmission



Good luck.

 

[darkhorse]

I've run both but in different trucks. I sure missed the extra gear on hills when I ran the 5 speed. Opinions will very but mine didn't feel much different shifting.

 

[JesseJ]

Driveshaft lengths may vary depending on the truck. I had to do more than 2" on each shaft. Same crossmember, clutch hydraulics are all the same. Personally having gone from a NV4500 to a NV5600, I don't think I'll ever go back. The 6-speed is all around beefier, has a bigger clutch and I've been pleased with mine. Some people like them, some don't, seems to be a matter of preference. Rebuilding the 6-speed is WAY harder than the 5-speed, but most people won't take the time or have the tools to rebuild either one.