Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) (5th gear) Nut'n Clutch...

[plongson]

I have almost 80k on the truck and about 15k since bombing. The clutch is not happy even babying it with 18k GCVW. I need to install a new clutch.



QUESTION: The 5th gear nut has not been a problem and I wouldn't even know there WAS a problem had I not read it here. With the trans out for a new clutch, would it be prudent to install a fully splined main shaft at this time?? I know it is really just a gamble, but do some 5th gears just last and others just die???



What do you guys think???



If I had just found a bag of money, I would swap to a 6 gear...

 

[trqmnstr]

I would say go ahead and do it while you've got the transmission off. Wouldn't you rather take the transmission off once instead of twice. It's just a matter of time before you have the 5th gear problem. Just my . 02.

 

[Got Smoke?]

I agree if you have the funds and while you have the transmission out go ahead and do it.



But let me add, I had a previous 97 2500 that I put approx. 77K miles on it before selling it last year and I never had a 5th gear problem. Couldn't count the # of 5 gear lugged smoke shows I put on either. :-laf



However I never towed 18K lbs either.



Do it while its out!

 

[DKarvwnaris]

If I was pulling the transmission to have work done on it, I would definitely have the clutch replaced. But if you need to pull the clutch only, I would hold off on the transmission upgrade. The transmission can come off with far less work than the clutch if need be. The last few nv-4500's I've had were fine for well over 100,000 miles with no problems to speak of. The one nv-4500 I did have a 5th gear nut failure on just developed a second neutral position. I made it home in 4th gear, just need to keep it under 2500 rpm's when you're hauling. I regularly pull loads heavier then yours, My trailer with load is over 20,000 lbs and as you can see from my signature the miles are high on it. It is not the original transmission, but its only been rebuilt once that I am aware of.

If you really want to go with a 6 speed, why not hold off on the rebuild of the 5 speed until it is actually needed and put the money towards the 6 speed? The gear span is much better for mid range towing anyways.

 

[Supermod56]

Check with Dan at Quad4X4, he has a 5th gear upgrade for transmission's that HAVE NOT had a 5th gear nut issue, it's called the "torque King", and all it requires is removing the rear housing to do it. He will even rent you the tools to do it.

Tom