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I was hoping to be closer to the 2k range or just under. That's why i'm asking the question. The GV unit is a lot of money and I don't see any financial gas from a gas consumption perspective, or at least enough to say that it's worth it.
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I agree. Watch Ebay and Craigslist for an old "Brownie" or Spicer two speed auxilliary gearbox.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1954-GMC-Mod...sories&vxp=mtr
Or maybe locate an old three speed trans and install it backward behind your current trans using third gear for 1:1 and engaging second gear for overdrive. Chances are you can get one for $200 or less and the amount of fabrication work may not be much more than the imported box.
FWIW with that large rear ratio change I'd probably try the new gears before committing time and big money into the OD unit. If you want to reduce RPM more you might be able to switch to a taller, narrower tire. Air resistance around a rolling tire accounts for a large part of consumed energy when driving.
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I know I have tooted my horn a bunch about the optional Borg Warner setup they used with the three speed trans. That is what I have and I love it. The overdrive is automatic and the three speed part is manual.
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Just a cautionary note to anyone considering one. Back in the day many people considered them a "weak" unit. Originally they were wired so the ignition circuit was disabled during a shift to prevent engine torque from damaging them. I know a few guys that have broken the OD planetary behind a healthy smallblock by not utilizing the OEM safeguards.
There's also a "4+3" transmission which was a Super T10 4 speed with an hydraulic OD section added by Doug Nash engineering. It was factory equipment in Vettes in the early to mid '80s and although it's also considered a weak unit by performance enthusiasts it could be used in an empty truck by a careful driver.
http://www.5speeds.com/dne.htm