Automatic to Standard transmission Swap

[CDavis33]

I have looked high and low for any information on this topic and have come to a dead end. I have come to the conclusion that i may want to swap out my 48RE for the 6 speed standard, i believe it is the NV5600 for the 2006 rams. I would like to know what all is involved, electrically, parts and pieces. The more help the better.

 

[JCleary]

It may be cheaper to trade your truck in. I wanted to do the opposite with my '03, but ended up selling it and buying an auto.



IIRC you'll need new driveshafts, a transmission, a new ECM, pedal setup, clutch hydraulics, and a few other bits and pieces. A G56 from a mid-year '05-'08 is better than the NV5600. The shifting on a NV5600 is slower and notchier than the G56. You also have a choice of overdrive ratios on the G56 depending on whether you get an early or late transmission.



Really though, unless you've spent thousands in mods on your truck, you're better off with another truck.

 

[DCreed]

Agree with JCleary on all points. G56 has proved more reliable than NV5600. Also why the swap? A GOOD BUILT auto would run same as this type swap and often outperform the stick. It can and has been done though, search threads on trans swaps to find details.

 

[CDavis33]

Thanks guys. That is exactly the thought i had. I don't want to get off of the subject of the swap, but you mentioned a properly built automatic. What does this consist of. Those units are extremely expensive. Are you just talking about a new valve body and a torque converter?

 

[JCleary]

Fill out your signature line with your truck info and members on the site will be better able to help you...



That said, if you have an '06-'07 truck with a 48RE, it comes with upgraded clutches. You could get away with replacing your TC and valve body for mild power upgrades. I'm on the fence right now as to what I want to do. TC, VB, flexplate, input shaft, or just a TC and VB.



If you have an older trans, you'll want to upgrade the whole transmission. For example, a Sun Coast trans goes for $4700 or so around here not including any billet parts or TC. It does, however, have all the upgraded clutch packs and other goodies. If you go nuts with billet parts, it can cost $8k or more, but will hold 800+hp and take street/strip abuse.



I think I'm going to be cheap for now and do a VB and TC. About $2500 in parts and labor. My trans only has 9k miles, though.