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i want to put a nv4500 in my 78 f2504wd. i was wondering how much it may cost, where i can get one(preferably the early chevy model with the lower first gear ) and how hard the swap may be. i have a 400m with a 435 and a 205. i know the drive lines will need changed and also the mounts . i have seen adapter kits for this swap but they only cover the bellhousing.. i need help locating one on the cheap. i have searched all the junkyards in my area and have come up short. i live in montana.
Cheap??? Not going to happen. This is an expensive transmission (early lower gear style) and the adapters are pricey as well. I have heard and read that the NV4500 from the dodge is the trans that works best on the FORDS.
I have been thinking of the conversion for my '76 F150 4x4 390FE...but not sure it is worth the tremendous cost.
I'd like one for my '73 390 too, but lack the $$. Last time I checked, a used Dodge trans is over $1000, plus the adapter and new clutch adds up to about $1500-$1800 by the time it's done... not cheap. But a 5 spd would be nice...
The swap work is easy. As noted above, it is expensive.
Advance Adapters for front and rear of trans runs about $700.
I have a NV4500 in my '78 F250 4x4. The truck is not complete, but, it's in there. Seems like it is going to work.
I used the Dodge 4500 and a Dodge transfer case (NV271) to eliminate rear adapter. The Dodge t-case runs closer to the left frame rail. I was even able to use the Dodge front drive shaft without modifying its length.
Mine was $270 through Summit. Their price was less than direct from Advance Adapters. The Advance Adapters web site has good information.
The adapter goes between the bellhousing and the transmission. That way it does not screw up the clutch actuation system geometry. Its 1 inch thick to make up for the longer input shaft on the NV4500.
My brother-in-law installed an NV4500 in an '81 F350 with an adapter made by a local machine shop. That truck is working just fine with his $35 adapter.
I'm fixing to install a NV4500 into my '67 2WD f100, 390. The tranny is going to cost me around $1100, + $250 for adapter. To get the tranny to work for the fords you need to get the 1 1/8" input shaft. So the tranny needs to be from a 3/4 ton GAS motor. The cummins NV4500 has a 1 1/4" input shaft and won't work with Advances adapter kit. I'm pretty pumped about it! The 5th gear is 27% overdrive so that'll be pretty trick!
I'm fixing to install a NV4500 into my '67 2WD f100, 390. The tranny is going to cost me around $1100, + $250 for adapter. To get the tranny to work for the fords you need to get the 1 1/8" input shaft. So the tranny needs to be from a 3/4 ton GAS motor. The cummins NV4500 has a 1 1/4" input shaft and won't work with Advances adapter kit. I'm pretty pumped about it! The 5th gear is 27% overdrive so that'll be pretty trick!
ceetwarrior -- Keep us all informed! I'm sure there are tons of folks interested in your progress. Good Luck!!!
Biz, I got just got my NV4500 last Friday. It cost me $1100, but the guy was very honest and a neat guy to talk to. He rebuilt it with all new syncro's and seals. He also said the inside is like brand new. So I feel confident in my swap. The tranny itself is very clean!
I got my adapter plate kit today, it's very nice machined aluminum.
I had to get new clutch plates for an '85 Chevy C10. From Autozone it was $65. I'm off to the junkyard tomarrow to pick up a Dodge shifter of my choice, drive shaft and maybe a crossmember mount. I'm hopefully going to do the swap at the end of the week or weekend then have the driveline cut to proper length next week.
I feel bad frankenstining my truck with Dodge and Chevy parts, but hey, it'll be pretty cool when I'm passing chevys in 5th gear
I don't know much about the swap, but I did have a 93 chevy with a 4500 in it. High impact had a bunch of good info. They are right about the early chevy ratios. While the 6.34 first seems appealing, the jump in ratio from second to third is pretty big. However, with a powerful enough motor, it is no problem. I had a stock 350, and it was fine. I am looking at the ranger overdrive unit. I don't know if you guys have considered it or not, but unless you get a deal on the tranny, this may be a decent option. I like the fact that you get overdrive in EVERY gear. It is $1400, and doesn't require adapters. Of course you will have to do some driveshaft mods, but you have to do that anyway. Just some thoughts.