NV4500 Upgrade??

[Supermod56]

Do you guys think I should modify my 4500 with the new Mainshaft/5th gear, or do the 5600 conversion?? I tow about 10,000lbs on a regular basis. Truck has 60K, no trans issues so far, want to keep it that way!!! Thanks!!!

Tom



01 2500 4WD 5-Spd, DD TTPM, DD Stage 1 Injectors, 4" Pipe, AFE, Jake Brake

 

[Forrest Nearing]

man, if you've got the cash, and you tow a lot, I'd go w/ the 6sp... you can turn around and get good money out of your 5sp setup and end up not having too terribly much in the swap.



I've gone back and forth on this... I've decided to keep the 5sp for financial reasons and because I run empty all the time.



Forrest

 

[Supermod56]

Thanks Forrest, I think I will do just that!!!



Tom



01 2500 4WD 5-Spd, DD TTPM, DD Stage 1 Injectors, 4" Pipe, AFE, Jake Brake

 

[DDT]

I agree with Forrest. The 5 speeds are not buillt heavy enough for towing heavy.

There is alot of expense but I still belive it's worth it.

 

[RT66DOC]

Yep, 6 spd.

 

[RRFinch]

Well, there is more than one way to "kill a cat" so to speak. I have had the 5th gear problem, and almost made the 6 speed swap. Instaed, I install a Gear Vendor overdrive unit. 4th Overdrive is 100 rpm higher than 5th direct. I never pull in 5th and find the slightly lower gear (4th over) is much much better for pulling loads. Additionally, when running "bobtail" and out on Nevada highways where you can go 75 mph then 5th over is great at 1800 rpm. Much better gear splits in 2nd and 3rd also.

The kit costs about $2700 and installs very easily. Gear Vendor has very excellent product advisors that talk you through the install process if you have any questions. Driveline must be shortened and balanced. Cost me another $130.

Performance is excellent. Shifting is very smooth and NO gear grinding. It does not shift gears. Rather it has hydraulic operated clutch that engages planetary gears. This is what makes shifting so smooth and easy.

I am glad I made this change instead of going to 6 speed.

 

[Forrest Nearing]

Gear Vendors run hot and they're expensive...



you spent over $2800... after selling off his complete 5sp setup, he'll probably be in the ballpark, he'll have a stronger transmission, and he won't have to worry about fluid temps or possible failure of an aftermarket item.



also, how well does an external overdrive work with a 4x4?



Forrest

 

[RRFinch]

Your right there IS more than one way to "kill the cat" so to speak.

I am not sure about the "stronger transmission" thought. I have heard the 6th gear is weak and some have had trouble with it. I am not too worried about the "hot" aspect as the gearbox uses synthetic oil (Gear Vendors say it is not a problem and I guess I trust their advice). Also, with the gearbox I don't use 5th gear on the 4500, so that mitigates the weakness. Additionally, I get more gears to fit different situations.

Not sure about the 4X4 aspect. Mine is 2 wheel highway rig.



Thanks for reply



Rob

 

[Supermod56]

The Gear Vendor only splits the rear driveshaft, I have looked into that as well, ultimately I'll put in the 6-speed AND the splitter, either way I think I'm gonna toss the 4500 eventually. Thanks for all the input!!!

TOM



01 2500 4WD 5-Spd, DD TTPM, DD Stage 1 Injectors, 4" Pipe, AFE, Jake Brake

 

[Turbo Thom]

As a number of folks know here, I installed the US Gear overdrive and e-brake 5 years ago for $2600. Both have been a fantastic improvement since, on my towing application. Now, I just installed the fifth 5 speed in the truck and third clutch. All have been rebuilds from ST in Texas. But that with 306K on the dial.

I see where the GearVenders overheats. If mine does, I don't know it. I may wory a little to much but I keep watch on the gauges when I tow. The rear end and transmission I really watch.

I could install the 6 speed, but why. They are not bullet proof. And still the final gear is still the same. That's why I installed the overdrive. With my overdrive I have no trouble getting my 15K RV up to speed and the brake helps stop it. Even if I went with the 6 speed, the 13 inch clutch up grade is over $1000 dollars. Till I find a donor truck, the 5 will stay in mine



. . Preston. .