Gear Vendors Overdrive install

[shelby987]

I have searched the forum, and didn't come across anything, was thinking maybe I missed it, is there a write-up on a gear vendors OD install, in particular I am interested in what the process entails to go onto the back of an NP205 t-case. I have seen a couple of pictures, is it just an adaptor, no cross member? Does the adaptor pitch the unit toward the rear end, or is it level with the transmission/t-case centerline?

[LUV2XCLR8]

Not sure about a write-up, but we do have a member w/ one in his rig

As for who it is and what his user id is all I can say is someone please

[TP from Cntl PA]

I was wondering the same thing............I've been debating about putting one on my K-20 as well............I was also thinking about a Ranger OD from Advanced Adapters, but that would require a tranny/t-case move 6" or so to the rear of the truck, which would require driveshaft work(No biggie) but I don't think the SM465 shifter would clear the bench seat, and the t-case shifter would be iffy.

I would just like more splits for the gears I currently.

I seen a Dana splitter on ebay acouple years ago for $400 which is what the Ranger is patterned after............I am STILL kicking myself for not clicking the "Buy it now" button.........I imagine most people wouldn't want them since it is another stick to run, but having been raised around old Macks with Du and Tri-plex's it doesn't bother me

[TP from Cntl PA]

ttt...........I'd like to hear more about one of these behind a NP205.

[kwmech]

You remove the rear yoke and seal housing, they give you a clamp that holds the rear bearing in place. Then the adaptor bolts on. The unit follows the centerline of the shaft. The wiring harness (hooked up correctly) will not allow O.D. engagement in 4wd. Just make sure that you shim the small sleeve correctly. All the instructions are in the package. Not all that hard.

[TP from Cntl PA]

Originally Posted by kwmech

You remove the rear yoke and seal housing, they give you a clamp that holds the rear bearing in place. Then the adaptor bolts on. The unit follows the centerline of the shaft. The wiring harness (hooked up correctly) will not allow O.D. engagement in 4wd. Just make sure that you shim the small sleeve correctly. All the instructions are in the package. Not all that hard.

My question is about the driveshaft angle..........Looks like a GV would change it to the point it would require other changes? I've seen the units on extended cab pickups and crews, but the extra length doesn't effect them like it would say on my smaller wheel base K-20.

[gator2511]

I have the unit on my K 10 shortbed and I've had no problems with it. I went to a TH400 and had to move everything back about 4 inches. Just get the rear drive shaft shortened. No Problem. Of course my truck has no lift on it. You can see some pics of it on my link.

[rage'nrat638]

Originally Posted by gator2511

I have the unit on my K 10 shortbed and I've had no problems with it. I went to a TH400 and had to move everything back about 4 inches. Just get the rear drive shaft shortened. No Problem. Of course my truck has no lift on it. You can see some pics of it on my link.

click on picture
[IMG][/IMG]

[Lemield]

I've got one on my CST 2wd behind a TH350. I don't know if your questions are 4wd specific but I'd be glad to answer any questions if I can. I LOVE my GV unit!! It works great. I installed it myself and the instructions in the kit were great.

[JRB]

Originally Posted by gator2511

I have the unit on my K 10 shortbed and I've had no problems with it. I went to a TH400 and had to move everything back about 4 inches. Just get the rear drive shaft shortened. No Problem. Of course my truck has no lift on it. You can see some pics of it on my link.

Gator2511,
I was wondering what the benefit of the GV verses a 700R4 or a 200R4? It seem like a lot of money for an overdrive.
JRB

[TP from Cntl PA]

Originally Posted by JRB

Gator2511,
I was wondering what the benefit of the GV verses a 700R4 or a 200R4? It seem like a lot of money for an overdrive.
JRB

A GV or any other type of auxiliary(Doug Nash, Ranger from AA, etc) isn't just an OD, you can split your regular gears with it........and it multiplys your speeds.

That is more of the reason I want such a unit, need the extra gears for towing.

[JRB]

Originally Posted by TP from Cntl PA

A GV or any other type of auxiliary(Doug Nash, Ranger from AA, etc) isn't just an OD, you can split your regular gears with it........and it multiplys your speeds.

That is more of the reason I want such a unit, need the extra gears for towing.

Thanks for the info. I take it that it must help your Gas Milage?
JRB

[TP from Cntl PA]

Originally Posted by JRB

Thanks for the info. I take it that it must help your Gas Milage?
JRB

I don't think the splits would much...........The OD in the truck original high gear does. The splits ease the shock loading on the drivetrain while towing IMO, and like I said, sure makes it easier running in the mountains and hills with the extra speeds.

[Schralper]

Originally Posted by JRB

Gator2511,
I was wondering what the benefit of the GV verses a 700R4 or a 200R4? It seem like a lot of money for an overdrive.
JRB

Price out one rebuild and it's a bargain!!
No way you're gonna trash an TH400/OD in the same time as a 200/700.
I've been thru enuff hassles w/ T700's that there's NO WAY I'll go that route again. Maybe 4L80 seems like more hassle, same $$.

Splinting is cool cuz you can keep it in the powerband all the time if you're willing to click and shift.

[Schralper]

http://www.gearvendors.com/

The only issue w/ a 4x4 is driveshaft angle.

I'm planning on installing a GV OD behind the T400 in my 2wd p/u.

[nate68]

you get a lot quicker acceleration with the extra gears

[skokie]

How much does one of these units go for?

[gator2511]

Hey JRB. Its a lot of money but with a th400 and the GV unit I feel like the strength is there to tow with confidence. Also I had a 700R4 in my Vette and really didn't like the 1st gear. Can't use it in 4wd though. RPM's on the highway came down about 1,000 at 70mph. You get to use your cheaper transmission and still have OD.

[dennislbrooks]

I ran a GV OD in my 86 toyota 4wd behind a 350 turbo and a NP205 --- newer transfer cases may have a switch that does not allow the overdrive if in 4wd ---- if you do not just hope you can lose traction on either ther front or rear if engaged while in 4wd. I traded my np205 GV adapter for one without the transfer case --about $600 for my 2wd 67 C10. I like the gear vendor but unless you run a lot of HP or heavy towing --- a 700R4 is less expensive. GV's are better than $2600 now plus you have the cost of a trans.

[gator2511]

Originally Posted by dennislbrooks

I ran a GV OD in my 86 toyota 4wd behind a 350 turbo and a NP205 --- newer transfer cases may have a switch that does not allow the overdrive if in 4wd ---- if you do not just hope you can lose traction on either ther front or rear if engaged while in 4wd. I traded my np205 GV adapter for one without the transfer case --about $600 for my 2wd 67 C10. I like the gear vendor but unless you run a lot of HP or heavy towing --- a 700R4 is less expensive. GV's are better than $2600 now plus you have the cost of a trans.

Well, You are absolutely right. I tow a 6100 pound travel trailer to where my son and I hunt several times a year. My Wife and I also camp a little. The 700R4 wouldn't serve me very well under these requirements. I almost put a 700R4 in anyway but I just got nervous about how strong they are. I read (as we all have) about the problems associated with the 700r4. I mean you really have to set them up properly or they won't last. I'm not saying they are a bad tranny but a TH400 and a GV OD works for my requirements and its easy to install and will last. If the tranny goes out its cheaper to rebuild. Its expensive to start with but in the long run I think my set up will work best for me.

[nate68]

2600 bucks into a 700r4 should make it bulletproof. i'm sure you can get a pretty stout one for around 2k (i think)

[TP from Cntl PA]

Originally Posted by nate68

2600 bucks into a 700r4 should make it bulletproof. i'm sure you can get a pretty stout one for around 2k (i think)

Bulletproof Slush Box.............I didn't know their was such a thing?

I would want one for the fact that I'd rather pay a bit more for a GV for behind a SM465, than put a NV4500 in for ALMOST the same amount of money and only gain 1 gear(OD)...........And if I sell the truck, take the GV off, put the stock parts back on and the GV goes to the new toy with a proper adapter.

[Schralper]

Originally Posted by nate68

2600 bucks into a 700r4 should make it bulletproof. i'm sure you can get a pretty stout one for around 2k (i think)

Once you add in the converter, the one I had built last yr for my 4x4 Burban came in close to that. This is the 3rd "built" 700R4 in the burban.
Yeah the truck weighs 3 tons but so what.
I still waould rather have a TH400/GV OD

[kwmech]

Originally Posted by Schralper

Once you add in the converter, the one I had built last yr for my 4x4 Burban came in close to that. This is the 3rd "built" 700R4 in the burban.
Yeah the truck weighs 3 tons but so what.
I still waould rather have a TH400/GV OD

I am on my 3rd 700 in my '90 burb also with a 185k on the speedo. Another 1,500 for the trans or about 3,000 for the conversion of the 400/gear vendor unit. I have a GV unit in my 69 GMC, but this time I personally couldn't justify the expense. I wish they hadn't jacked their prices so much. So I fully agree.

[Psycho71]

Originally Posted by nate68

2600 bucks into a 700r4 should make it bulletproof. i'm sure you can get a pretty stout one for around 2k (i think)

And, the 700r4 doesn't split the gear ratio's, effectively turning a 3speed auto into a 6 speed OD tranny with no clutch (or so they claim). Keeping the ratio's closer together keeps the rpm's in the power band longer, and reduces drivline shock, not even mentioning the .78 OD (22% lower rpm @ speed). And there is no lock-up converter to deal with. It is my understanding that a 700r doesn't route fluid to the cooler until the converter locks up. Another issue averted.

This thread is the first I've ever heard of this concept. Gotta love this board! I just spent about an hour reading their website. WOW!!!!!!!!!! I thought I was going to have to risk a 700r4, and I have NO luck what-so-ever. Now I know, I will just save my money until I can get the GV unit for my th350. It is a brilliant concept, and good to 1200hp in some apps.!

I do have a question or two for you guys running them.

The website says it's an easy system to operate, it it seems so. Is it really? Are you any more busy in the cab than you were before? If so how, and how much more?

After the intitial GV unit, what were your actual added expenses installing it?

Are there any quirks one might want to know about? Upshifting? Downshifting? Hesitation? Jerks? Bangs? Pops? Anything?

I notice fluid changes are recommended every 5,000 miles or so.
How difficult is this to do?

What fluid does it use?

Anyone using/seen other manufacturers units? Is so, how do they compare in your opinions?

Thanks for the info, and enlightenment (once again),
Jay