I am considering swapping out my Automatic for a 5sp Manual Transmision. Is there anyone that has done this or know any usefull info I should know? I have a 96 Ram 1500 Club Cab, Short Bed, with a 5.2 V8.

 

since you have the 5.2 i believe it should bolt up but you'd need a new transfer case as well...

 

I don't have a 4X4!

 

This is a pretty common topic and has been discussed many times, a quick search came up with a few threads on it.

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...onversion.html

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...eed-imput.html

Looks like you will need a new PCM, Gauge Cluster, clutch pedal and linkage assembly, cut hole in tranny hump, and possibly get a different drive shaft, because (IIRC) I believe the NV3500 manual tranny is a bit longer then the auto, or maybe it is the other way around. And I believe there is even more to it then that.

If this truck is your daily driver I honestly wouldn't do it.

 

You want to be careful what tranny you buy because when those 5 spd get to about 20000 miles give or take they start to give trouble with syncros and there is a nut inside that is prone to coming loose around thses miles too.

 

I think you all just answered my question and changed my mind about this. I think I will just get the Automatic rebuilt!

 

sorry didnt relize 4x2......

and the auto would be a better go...i believe you'll loose much acceleration with the 5 speed....and IMO its just not worth it....


and the bolt is in the fifth gear i think, a jam nut...it falls out, gets in the gears, and grind them...well destroying the tranny

 

Funny, my 95' with the NV3500 has 430,000 kms (267,000 mi) has almost no issue with the syncros. Every now and then it will be stiff into first, but thats all. The fifth gear nut is something I have never heard of on the NV3500, but is a common issue on the NV4500.

From everything I have read (on this forum and a few others) the NV3500 is much more reliable than the auto, and by design automatics take more power to run and will therefore have worse accelation than a manual.

Gord.

 

I agree 100%. Very well said.

 

my bad....i thought he was going with the 4500...but now i relize thats for the cummins and heavier rams lol



.....i really need to pay more attention