np203 to np205 help

[DESTRO]

Hello all,
I just got a 205 for the truck and was wondering what all would transfer over.
The truck is a 77 with a th350/203 combo. I just got a 205 with the adapter and shifter.
My questions are:
1. Will the driveshafts in the truck be the right length??

2. Will the front driveshaft flange on the 203 swap over to the 205?
[the 205 has a yoke on it,need the flange,if not wheres a good place to find one on the net??]

3. Can I get a gasket set for the 205 locally,like napa or advance[part #]

4. any general tips or tricks to help me out for the 203 to 205 swap??

Thanks

[DESTRO]

Nobody's ever swapped in a th350/205 from a th350/np203 that can help me out??

[DirtyLarry]

I swapped in a 205 to replace the 203 behind a TH350 in my ’78 many years ago. About 1998 I end up swapped out the TH350/NP205 all together for a SM465/NP205 which is what is still in the truck now, that is until a good deal on a NV4500 comes my way.

What I recall from the 203 to 205 swap from many moons ago….

1. No, the driveshafts will need to be reworked. The rear drive shaft will need to be lengthened while the front shaft will need to be replaced with the proper u-joint type flange opposed to the round flat adapter. That may depend on what year the 205 is from.

2. I don’t think so. Unbolt it and see if they swap over.

3. A very comprehensive gasket set can be acquired for the 205 from National Drivetrain for $23.00. You will be lucky get two seals at Napa for that price. http://nationaldrivetrain.com/shopsi...tcaseseal.html

4. One of the hardest pieces to find, if you do not have it, is the large pivot bolt that fastens the shifter lever to the 205’s adapter. Back in 1996 when I swapped in my 205 I was able to buy that bolt new from the GM dealer. It is even greaseable with a zerk on the end. I doubt GM dealers can get this bolt anymore.

Over all it is a very straight forward swap but keep in mind it is always cheaper to shorten a driveshaft rather than to lengthen one. You might find it cheaper to pick up a longer driveshaft at the junk yard then have the driveline shop shorten that one.