I have a 89 w100 318 with the 3 speed auto and it is just not enough for me I want a five speed with no granny gear and before i go and get the parts wondering if I can do this change over with just doing the tranny and clutch set up and maybe a drive shaft.
I haven't been able to find any truck up my way to look at and can't find anything online I was thinking I could take a 91 to 93 five speed truck to do this swap i know any newer the transcase is on the wrong side.


Thanks 89 PowerRam W100

 

You basically have two options. An NV3500: A medium-duty, aluminum-cased, integral bellhousing, 5 speed (4 plus overdrive). It came in V8 Dakotas as well as 1/2 ton rams with the 5.2 (318).
Or... If your needs are more demanding, than you will want an NV4500: A heavy-duty, cast iron-cased 5 speed. 1st can be considered a granny and 5th is an overdrive. It was used in all 3/4 and 1 ton applications and in 1/2 tons equipped with a 5.9 (360).
Both use the same hydraulic clutch setup and are nearly identical in length. As with most trannys, there are many variants of each, so you would need to verify usage before purchasing. The NV3500 is lighter duty, but dirt cheap and readily available. The NV4500 is more expensive as well as tougher to find, but much stronger.
I have swapped both into my 1st gen, so if you need advice, just ask.

Edit: For what its worth, I started with the NV3500, and after it finally failed me, went to the NV4500. The granny gear isn't a concern, and my only regret is messing with the NV3500 in the beginning.