Ok, I have been doing alot of research online and need some confirmation and input.
I have a 2001 Ram 1500, 4X4, Quad Cab, 5.2 w/5 speed manual. It has the payload package with the 9.25 rear axle and Dana 44 front.
Through my research I have determined the transmission is either a NV4500 or a NV4500HD. Which is it?
If it is a NV4500 can I easily swap to a NV4500HD?
Also, research shows my transfer case is a NV231HD with a manual floor shifter. Can I swap this out for the stronger NV 241D with the NV4500 or NV4500HD?
The reason for this line of questions is in the near future I will be replacing the 5.2 with a 5.9 V-8 making 425-475 lbs of torque and want to ensure the transmission and transfer case will survive and be reliable when in remote areas of Texas, New Mexico & Colorado.
As a side note I will be upgrading the rear axle with a custom truss & hardened axle shafts and the front axle with a custom truss, hardened shafts & a free-spin hub kit. I am also moving to 4.56:1 gears to turn 315/75/16 Cooper ST Maxx tires.
Thank you for your input.

 

Get a build sheet for your truck from here. Click on "equipment listing", enter your vin, and hit 'search'. That will tell you exactly what your truck came from the factory with.