I have an 01 3500 with the 5.9 cummins. After installing a few bolt ons and a programmer, the clutch won't hold. Instead of modifying the five speed manual, and upgrading the clutch, I'm thinking of switching to an automatic.

Does this swap require a different computer?

 

Different programming at least.

Why you would want to switch to a weaker trans though, is beyond me. Why not just replace your clutch? If you have a lot of miles on it, it's probably time in any event.

Moving this to the correct forum for you as well.

Welcome to DF!

 

Thanks for the help on the forum change. I am new to the site today. I purchased this truck last summer from an elderly neighbor, and it only had 113,000 miles on it. I am trying to learn the ins and outs of these trucks. From my searches I hear that the five speed is a weak link. I realize the auto tranny has proven to be junk during this era, but I was looking at the ats built ones. I figured that with the warranty and reputation of their transmissions I would get more performance for not much more cash. I have been told that the five speed needs modifications to handle big power. I also know that the south end dual disk kit I put in my 2011 4500 was almost two grand. I figured it wouldn't be too different in cost to swap. The 2001 is a toy and a weekend warrior that I intend to make into a monster, so do ya think I am off course with this idea? Thanks for your input.

 

You have the NV 4500 trans in yours, which is actually pretty stout. There are some issues with the fifth gear nut, but, there is a fix for that, and then you have a great trans.

Converting to an auto would be an exercise. Would need the PCM, wiring harness, and some assorted little pieces. (steering column with shifter, etc...) Be easier just to address the issue on the current trans, and call it a day.

 

stick with the nv4500! i have almost 400K miles on mine with no 5th gear nut issues or modifications to the fith gear nut, its a simple fix if it does happen, and doesnt dammage anything, my last dyno was 550hp/ 1100 lb ft of torque at the tires in over drive, and i have added a lot more HP since then, they are pretty much bullet proof, i put the the south bend dual disk in a little bit ago, with upgraded hydros and the nv5600 input shaft for about $1200, but unless you are going for big power, a simple replacement/upgraded stock clutch can be found for about $500

a auto conversion is going to be REALLY expensive, with the parts already mentioned, plust a lot more pieces that are needed, i would guess in the $5k min range, unless you find an amazing deal on parts, then there is the building of it to handel more HP and that gets pricy too,

 

Agree on the nv4500. Great trans. However if you decide to swap it, send it my way