5 speed swap

[Mv7fd]

Has anyone swapped in a 5 speed that is a direct bolt up on a 79 k20 I'd really like to swap a 5 speed in place of the 4 speed

[Ziegelsteinfaust]

There's no bolt in option. I have been looking at any conceivable option to increase my overall power band with the possibility of increased mpg.

I think the NV4500 is the choice most use with an adapter or use its t-case. The mod the driveshafts to fit. Along with relocation cross member, and mod to mount up.

[Orion88]

Gear Vendors unit bolts right in. You'll need to shorten your drive shaft though. And I'm not sure if it works with all-time 4x4.

[Mv7fd]

I have part time 4x4

[Orion88]

In that case it will work but not when 4x4 is engaged. But how often do you need O/D in 4x4 anyways?

The Gear Vendors unit is pretty much the same for every application, they just have different adapter plates for each type of transmission. TH400, Muncies, 727s, etc. A little on the pricey side but super easy to install and very reliable.

This is an episode of Hot Rod Garage where they show you how to bolt a GV unit up to a SuperBee. Different vehicle, but the procedure will be mostly the same.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SywsCGnoXOU

An advantage to using a GV unit with a 4-sp is you can split the gears if you want, essentially turning your 4-sp into an 8-sp. Most people don't use it for that, but it's nice to have when you need a better passing gear while cruising the highway and someone in a Prius with an Obama bumper sticker feels the need to go 5 under in the fast lane.

[Mv7fd]

i'm all about the gear vendors it's like 3000 for my truck

[andrewmp6]

And don't forget you gotta shorten the rear drive shaft or have one cut.

[KQQL IT]

What's an option for 2wd I'm buying a truck with a sm465

[Gregs71]

If you already have a 465, have you looked into the ranger OD unit. I believe its made by advanced adaptors and cheaper than GV.

[Just call me Sean]

Why can't you use a newer 5 speed? The one from the next generation trucks. You would have to set up the hydraulic clutch though.

[Oregoon]

The Ranger unit is reputed to be a bit noisy.

But so what? I've never heard of one breaking and they're supposed to be relatively easy to install.

Personally, I had great luck changing my rear-end ratio. I found a 3-series 3.08 rear end out of a van, and it improved my (now gone) '66 Suburban's driveability, mileage and top end. That truck had a 292 and a granny 4-speed.

My Brand-X truck had a 2.72 ratio, a granny 4-speed, and a 300-cid, and it ran down the road like it was on greased rails.

Just a suggestion for 2WD guys. Obviously, a 4x4 owner wouldn't want to change to a higher ratio.

[Cabnchassis]

If youre just looking for more fuel economy and you aren't lifted or wheeling hard or towing a lot of weight, re-gearing like the previous poster suggested would help. With the stock 4.10s in my k2500 I don't ever, even on street tires down hill in OD at 2000 rpms, get to see 16 mpg. If you're running a 3/4 or 1 ton with low gears you might be able to step back a bit and be happy there.

As far as swapping everyone else covered that but the NV4500 and a hydraulic clutch kit are your list of options for 5 spds in these trucks.

[andrewmp6]

Kqql it if your not going to make a lot of power you could use a t5 from a 3rd gen camaro.The nv4500 is what the newer trucks used.If you got money to blow tko or t56.