’99 Ram manual transmission - rebuild or replace

[Gearclash]

I have most of the parts I need to rebuild my NV4500. I made a mistake when ordering and got the 1-3/8” input shaft instead of the 1-1/4”. Not a big deal. I will have to replace the clutch but while it is not in poor shape it may as well be replaced all things considered.

Question I have is about the input shaft bearing retainer. The 1-3/8” input shaft requires a larger bore in the “quill” of the retainer. Is the OD of that quill the same size on both the 1-1/4” and the 1-3/8” retainers? I’m assuming they are. Might just bore the original quill out to suit the 1-3/8” shaft if the steel isn’t stone hard.

 

[BigPapa]

In my opinion, you’d be better off to put it back with the right parts as it came. When you start changing things, you’re opening Pandora’s box.

 

[Gearclash]

1-3/8” input shaft is a very common upgrade on these transmissions -- it just wasn’t one I planned. Since I have that part that is what I will use.

I did also order the 5th gear and improved main shaft. Why New Venture didn’t fully spline the mainshaft for 5th gear right from the start is beyond me . . .

 

[Shiner]

I have done several nv4500’s, nothing extravagant as I knew I wouldn’t be pushing much power. These nv4500 are marginal in these trucks. Buy quality parts and you’ll be a happy man. Any significant performance/power increases, I would search out a g56. Don’t forget to do the transfer case while you are at it.