NV4500 to NV5600 Conversion. I am doing it!

[C. Harlan]

Well, I talked to the transmission shop, and they want almost as much to fix my 4500 as Blumenthal wants for a new 5600, minus 176,000 miles! my question is, I know that you can use the same flywheel if you bore out the center... what is the specs on that diameter?? I need to know, so I can take it to the machine shop and let them do their thing. Also, those of y'all who have done this, was it an easy retrofit??? Need some replies!!!



-Chris-

 

[KcoleKennyc]

Just made the change on my truck about 5,000 miles back. Very simple job, hardly any worse than a clutch change. If your truck is a 2wd, it's a breeze. The toughest part was getting that 420 lb. monster on the jack. Bought my new NV5600 from Blumenthals along with their installation kit. I got some parts that I didn't need such as a new shift lever. It's the same as the old one. Everything bolted right in place. I did use the trans. with the small input shaft so I wouldn't have to purchase a new flywheel and clutch-the clutch had just been replaced. Used their bronze pilot bushing and didn't have to do anything to the flywheel. It didn't come in the kit but cost only about $3 or so. The new trans. was hard to shift at first but is getting better. Really like the difference in 3rd gear ratio now-much better than the 5 speed. Let us know how it goes with the swap. Kenny N4YYX

 

[GAmes]

How bad is that 4500 trashed??? Standard rebuilt mine with a new shaft, 5th gear, synchros, and more for about $1200. I can't believe you can do a switch, including a cut driveshaft for that. TDR issue 33 (I think) has an article on the conversion.

 

[C. Harlan]

As far as I know, no driveshaft mods are needed, or so I was told... I would like to get this 6'er, fix up the 5 as a project, then turn around and sell it. Its just a thought, but the bank says I need a cosigner to get more cash, so I am trying to butter up good ol' mom!



-Chris-

 

[Bloomy]

Chris,

If you have issue 33 check it out. You will see why you have to cut the drive shaft. The 5600 is about twice the size. At least you don't have 4wd. Then you have to lengthen the front driveshaft as well.



Thomas

 

[Roger rodbolt]

Chris,

Shortening the rear driveshaft costs $50 to $100 in our area depending on the shop. FWIW, Larry

 

[KcoleKennyc]

The driveshaft "does not" have to be shortened on a 2wd. I added a short jumper for the backup lights and installed a plate that came in the kit so the 5 speed mount could be used. Everything else bolted right up. Call Keith at Blumenthals

 

[MCummings]

Originally posted by tbloom

You will see why you have to cut the drive shaft. The 5600 is about twice the size.



Thomas

You are both correct, and mistaken. (?)



The 5600 is nearly twice the size. IT'S HUGE! It dwarfs a 5-speed,, but the transmission kit from Blumenthals ( www.blumenthalmfg.com ) works as a perfect bolt-on swap. I did it to my truck and beside the EGR Brake system, it's the best thing I've done to my truck. It is a typical 6-speed, occasional grind, and occasionally it's hard to get into gear, but otherwise it's Perfect, the gear ratio's are AWESOME, there is no longer a Big jump from 3rd to 4th. and the RPM drop between gears is just right, no gear is spaced to close, or to far apart, There is always a gear for the Speed you are traveling.



You Won't regret it Chris!

The 6-speed will make your truck feel like new.



Merrick Cummings Jr

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BTW,

Reference these, Good info. (Blumenthals Kit does not require shortening, or lengthening the driveshafts. )



The NV4500

http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/transmission/nv4500_spec.htm



The NV5600

http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/transmission/nv5600_spec.html



NV4500 vs. NV5600 RPM/Speed charts.

http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/specs/axle/5sp_vs_6sp.htm



NV4500 to NV5600 swap. .

http://www.dodgeram.org/tech/transmission/nv5600_swap.htm

 

[GAmes]

I may regret asking this, but here goes. How much is a Blumenthal 5600 kit? I've nearly hid enough from the boss to pay for a SB clutch, now my mouth is watering for a better transmission.

 

[TxDieselKid]

I know your going to love it Chris!