Manual SWAP 12 Valve Cummins I Which Transmission is Best?

[@decentgarage]

If you could choose any manual transmission to throw behind your 12 valve which one would you pick? Comment Below!

[@masonaune2947]

Nv5600

[@TheRustyGarageandHomestead]

Nv5600 or the g56

[@kaydewhipple7696]

Both 6 speeds have the same size input . A big problem with the g56 is case flex. It would allow the countershaft gear to climb the input gear and split the case. I had this happen in my 08. Also all the synchro guides and the tower are tac welded very poorly and split as well

[@decentgarage]

@@kaydewhipple7696 how much power did you have in your 08?

[@decentgarage]

@@masonaune2947 very well

[@daveunderwood6498]

I have a 91 (unmodified) with a Getrag and shifts smooth as silk. As much as I know these are work-horses, I drive it right and don't lug it. Treat it with respect and your bank account will love you for it. Great info.

[@decentgarage]

Couldn't agree more. I love the getrag!

[@jordanhildebrand27]

Do your guy’s Getrag’s rattle a lot bogging in 4th? Swapped one behind a 24 valve. All the bearings are mint. Split it and checked everything out before I stabbed it in.

[@decentgarage]

@@jordanhildebrand27 seems like most 5 speeds rattle going from 3 to 4 cause it's a fairly significant jump and causes the engine to lug slightly

[@daveunderwood6498]

@@jordanhildebrand27 Be careful about lugging it. From a forum that I read, 360 in the name Getrag 360 is the torque that it's rated for. Check around about that, but it's something to keep in mind.

[@NXT_LVL]

Depends on the gearing, my parents didn't lug there on purpose, but it could do it empty. Span of 35 years, 3 diesel trucks, owned/used consecutively (two Cummins; 12v 92 and 24v 05, and one 97 7.3L F350) All manual. None of them had any issues at the collective average of 300k miles. Though the 7.3 took the most abuse; 32ft gooseneck with a cab over Deere and a Detroit diesel powered spreader. Most people want to start them in 1st for some reason lol the 92 we had could bark the tires on the 2-3 shift on command Getrag and was basically a 13" dump truck clutch

[@possumpopper89]

I had a 07.5 with the g56 and really liked it. Idling in neutral It rattled like a bag of marbles til you mashed the clutch pedals. I only had the truck 3 years but I hauled some heavy loads with it and the truck never even hiccuped. A 3 axle trailer with 14 round bales was the biggest load I ever towed and it never even lost any RPM’s in. Those control at 65mph. The wife was really impressed when she rode along on that trip. She never really understood why I insisted on a stick shift or a Cummins but she said “now I understand why you wanted this kind of truck”.

[@davidcole3927]

Excellent information on the manual transmissions. 👏 It's amazing how many hours can be spent with Google and reading on forums trying to find clear answers. Tim thanks for a much simpler answer.

[@decentgarage]

The funny part is that i did very little research for this video... Most of this stuff i just spit out from memory 🤣🧐

[@darrellyoder2602]

Amen

[@nathanaelbaca9534]

Great information. After doing a lot of research myself and scouring online forums for hours over the course of the last year or so, this is probably the best single place to find the information that you've gone over comparing these transmissions. Super informative and well put together. You're gonna save LOADS of time for people in the future. Thanks for all your other videos, too. They've helped me a lot on picking things to do for my 85 crew cab build

[@decentgarage]

Funny thing is i didn't have to do much research for the video... 🧐. That's how much of a Cummins nerd i am

[@wesscarey4475]

Excellent video!!!!!!! One important thing to remember is higher gearing does not always mean better fuel milage. Engines can be over geared and get worse fuel milage. The most important thing to remember is correct engine RPM at a certain MPH range. HP and torque need to be taken into consideration when choosing gearing. Ultimately you want a low enough first and reverse with the correct final drive gear ratio, with enough ratios in between to accomplish the task the truck is expected to perform. Diesels like 6 or more gears for moving heavy weight because of their narrow power range. If a vehicle is slightly under geared there will be no noticeable increase in fuel usage. If slightly over geared the engine can struggle and cause increased fuel consumption. Also, the speed of the drive shaft in relationship to the engine crankshaft does not automatically decrease or increase fuel milage ("over drive") but is just a term that is used to describe the crankshaft turning slower than the drive shaft as power is transmitted through the transmission. Weight of the vehicle, wind resistance, engine HP and torque, rear end gear ratio and tire diameter all need to be taken into consideration when choosing the final engine RPM. A transmission does not have to be "over driven" to have all the correct gear ratios that are needed for a specific application. This is why there are different rear end gear ratios and or tire diameters available.

[@decentgarage]

Great points here! 👍

[@stevesaner3697]

Looking for a G56 willing to travel, doing a Chevy k10 2nd gen ram conversion build with my son. I know it’s a long shot, but figured I’d ask on here. Also I have an NV4500 that I’m looking to sell Thanks for doing these videos, very informative.

[@Somnifluous]

When my nv4500 thrashed its synchros, I pondered the same decision. I rebuilt it myself with all the upgrades, glad I did. None of the 6 speeds are as tough or as fast. My nv4500 takes all the abuse I can throw at it. With a short shift kit,gear changes are smooth and almost as fast as an automatic.

[@raychilcote5558]

I'm 4 days post-swap. 07 5.9 48RE to G56. Pulled the 48RE with my Dad one weekend. Put the G56 in the following weekend with 2 Cummins enthusiasts. Huge thanks for the work and the format of your videos. Helped build confidence to do this. You also helped me ensure that I got the AE model witch fit my driving/pulling/fuel economy needs. Couldn't be happier!

[@decentgarage]

Glad to hear you got it done. And glad to hear my video was helpful

[@cadeamber2356]

My Dad and uncle both had 2011 crew cab duallys with the g56 and both put upwards of 275k miles on them with no problems whatsoever. Personally I’ve driven all dodge manuals and can’t say I prefer one over the other. It just depends on your set up and what you do with the truck daily. Looking forward to seeing more videos your content is great!

[@decentgarage]

Yeah I've heard a lots of people getting tons of miles out of them

[@Sackmatters]

Nv5600. Bulletproof in my 04 with a southbend single infront of it. 4.10s, 4 door dually with an aluminum flatbed. I’ve hauled 20k behind it up here in Alaska multiple times and it doesn’t skip a beat. 40’ gooseneck tandem axle dually with a Gehl skid steer and materials.

[@decentgarage]

I want to give an nv5600 a whirl for sure.

[@hammertimebc1934]

My 5600 has been an absolute work horse as well with the same South bend single.

[@roarkfabworks]

The NV4500 was also offered in some 2003 trucks. It came with the S.O. Engine option. Great video.

[@decentgarage]

Interesting 🤔

[@spencersgarage]

Correct. The only way you could get a NV5600 in an 2003 was having the H.O. engine. S.O. Engines got the NV4500. That ONLY happened in 2003.

[@travismerrill6397]

Your video just popped up on my feed. Great video. I've been lucky enough to drive all 4 tranny's. However, my daily driver for the last 21 years is a an '01 2500 with the HO motor. 5600 behind it. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I've gotten so used to it, I don't even use the clutch. It floats as smooth as silk. Upshifting, and downshifting. And the icing on the cake....being able to drive it this way, I just changed out the factory clutch. At a half million miles. I'll be a 5600 guy forever!

[@decentgarage]

I need to learn how people drive these truckssl without using the clutch!

[@J.Young808]

@@decentgaragerev matching, sound and feel.

[@philipunderwood477]

I've owned a 1992 with a Getrag, 1997 Nv4500, 2002 with a NV5600 and now a 2006 with the G56 AD model. None of these trucks are modified. Just plain tow rigs, farm truck, cattle haulers and hotshot work The early manuals were always decent in their day. I could always criticize the 5 speeds for huge gaps in gears when pulling heavy trailers (10k - 20,000 lbs) The G56 is awesome and matched well with the 2006 cummins. Excellent truck as long as you don't need to ever go faster than 75mph My 2007 Megacab with an automatic is smoother and nicer. But I always have concerns with any auto. I'm looking forward for a G56 AE sometime

[@decentgarage]

What's gears do you have? You might look at regearing or look at a gear vendor overdrive unit.

[@philipunderwood477]

@Decent Garage the 2006 G56 is 3.73 it's comfy around 65-70mph The 2007 auto is also 3.73, nice on the highway around 75mph, occasionally 80 I haven't driven a G56AE My brother and I have discussed this and Allison swaps for the Auto... Not quite there yet ... BTW- 385,xxx on the G56 2nd clutch Just lost an injecector. Waiting on my shop

[@currywilkins6244]

Great video I personally have an nv4500 in my first gen and I have had to deal with the 5th gear nut I don’t wanna step on anyone’s toes but when you lose the nut you do lose 5th but the transmission isn’t destroyed you can easily fix this with the transmission in the truck I like these transmission because of how easy I can find them in Utah

[@decentgarage]

Thanks for the clarification on that!

[@miliscilawncare5550]

I just kept driving mine no o issues

[@jayg479]

I have a getrag and G56. G56 for the win. Thanks for the content

[@decentgarage]

Yep! Love the G56!

[@plumbum6558]

I’ve fixed several nv 4500 5 th gear nuts for several people never seen one explode myself you just lose 5th gear they keep driving them till they can get them fixed when I ordered my 02 I ordered it with the nv 4600 trans, shift on the fly no vac disconnect on front axle, high output engine so that it came with the Dana 80 rear axle I new about the issues and and that is why I ordered it with these options that I did I’m still driving it today 👍it’s been pulling backhoes excavators dump trailers camp trailers still going and still looks good !

[@decentgarage]

Yeah the 5th gear nut causing a blow up was a bit of an exaggeration 🤣. A few people have mentioned getting a 5600 in an 02. That's so cool

[@BigTex8319]

I've heard a lot of people complain about the G56 being garbage, I have the NV5600 in my 03 2500 5.9HO and it has been reliable with 360,000 miles on it and it gets better MPG

[@decentgarage]

G56 is the best option in my opinion. It's by far the smoothest shifting trans out of all the ones mentioned in this video

[@BigTex8319]

@@decentgarage Who cares how smooth it shifts if it's not reliable. As I mentioned before I have a 2003 2500 5.9HO with the NV5600, and I get 33.8 MPG on the open road doing 70 MPH without a load, with a load I get 22 MPG, my friend has an 07 in the same configuration but with the G56, and he only 18 MPG, he has 280,000 on his truck and has had the transmission replaced twice, mine is original at 360,000

[@WOODDIGDIY]

Great content! I have A 01 with a nv5600. I bought it with 140k it already had a slight bent input shaft some kid owned it and I'm sure he was doing burn outs with it. It now has 260k At 215k the main seal started to leak so I just did a budget fix and put a new seal in it. Lasted 30k miles and started to leak again. Now it just has a very light leak. Every 6000 miles I add 1 qt. So far most I have towed combined weight is about 28000. I just hauled a d2 5j dozer 8 hours out of town. Once it starts leaking more I think I'm just going to overhaul the nv5600 as I have blown up at least 3 nv4500s. I tow heavy all the time my truck never sees daily driving.

[@jimssawsnstuff8903]

The 2nd version NV5600 😎👍 I've owned 3 dodges with the Cummins and manual transmissions. 89 with he getrag, which was a.light duty transmission and clunky. 2002 HO Dually with the NV5600 and the Pac brake. I hauled huge loads over some extremely steep highways. Towing 9 ton up and down 8% grades. That was an amazing and very durable combination. My truck was running about 1900 rpm at highway speed and got decent mileage. The thing with diesels is they run best at lower rpms. 2006 Cummins with the G56. This thing was low geared, with stock tires it basically redlined if you were trying to pass somebody on the highway...I had to go up to 35's and even then it was low geared. The problem with the G56 is the aluminum housing is too light and it flexes under the torque of the Cummins, then everything inside them self destructs. It's widely known this transmission was designed for small diesels in other countries, but at the time Daimler - Chrysler owned mercedes too and decided to use their own transmission vs the heavy duty North American NV5600. If you are using it only as a commuter and drive like you're driving a gas pot, then it probally would last for awhile...but that defeats the full potential of owning a Cummins. The NV5600

[@k-art-L]

Yes sir VN5600

[@Cargill450]

This video is gold!! The information is spot on and super helpful. When they built my g56 they used some early g56 parts instead of keeping the late g56 parts in it and it was night and day.

[@decentgarage]

Oh that is awesome! It's be sweet to get the AD reverse gear and the AE overdrive gear

[@joshua.merrill]

I'm rebuilding an NV4500 to put behind a '70 El Camino I'm Cummins swapping. I had so much trouble moving it into my garage with the help of my housemate, I couldn't believe you said it only weighed 195 lbs! So, without the bell housing and transfer case on, I went to go pick it up to check, and sure enough, it really isn't that heavy! The transfer case is almost as heavy, and that's got an aluminum case!

[@peterschmidt2849]

I had the nv4500 in my 1990 I really enjoyed it.

[@decentgarage]

It's a great transmission for sure!

[@mutantryeff]

I switched from the G360 to NV4500 with finned cooler (one with a filter) on each side for my 93 (rwd). It required modifications to crossmembers, shortening the driveshaft and sheet metal work. The 1993 Service Manual included a section for the NV4500. The NV4500 weighs a lot more than the G360. Using the GL4 synth oil in the NV4500 has been expensive. The NV4500 has been rebuilt once since installed as a new unit.

[@decentgarage]

Great info! I'll be putting an nv4500 in the next build 👍

[@Mg-1234x3]

The reason the NV4500 is in the 1993 service manual, is dodge used the standard duty NV4500 behind 5.9 magnum v-8 gasoline engines 1992-2002. NV4500 heavy duty was not available until 1994 with the cummins.

[@Supergringeaux]

I lost the nut off of 5th gear twice in my 96, finally put a tack weld on it and cured that problem. It never grenaded the transmission though. the gear would just slide back on the shaft. Wish I still had that truck.

[@HoosierDynamics]

My G360 has 518k miles on it never been rebuilt. Just keep it overfilled with 5w30 Royal purple and it loves life no matter what

[@decentgarage]

Yep, they are great transmissions and really are work horses!

[@philipbice6294]

I have a 2017 with a g56, reverse is to high especially when backing up in tight spots such as campgrounds. To avoid smoking the clutch I put a 2 low switch in and it works very well…….

[@Cody-ew5zw]

My first gen is needing a transplant soon, so definitely following this one.

[@decentgarage]

Nice! Hope you enjoy!

[@kenbrown9316]

You got me on edge - can’t wait for the video man!! I have a G56 in my 3rd gen with 250,000 on it and can’t kill that thing, was also thinking about putt on in 1st gen and this video will be awesome - keep up the good content I always look forward to you videos. 🙏🏻

[@decentgarage]

Awesome! That are sweet transmissions for sure!

[@ajs96350]

G56 all day every day. I've driven them all and it is by far the best.

[@decentgarage]

100% agree!

[@robertlaird6746]

I had a 2001 Dodge turbo diesel 4x4 6 speed manual and really liked it. I sold it and now want to get a 1992 or 1993 turbo diesel 12 valve inner cooler, regular cab, long box, 4x4, manual and want to keep it stock. I haven't driven one since I was 16 so don't remember how they drive. I hope that I'll be happy with it and not want to change a thing but we shall see. Great video!

[@DasMoose9001]

I went with a ZF6 from a 6.0 powerstroke and a WildHorse Mfg adapter

[@thesilverbullet1680]

G56 AE is what I would want for my 1st gen. Thanks for the video helped me learn a lot more about these! Can’t wait for the next video too!!!

[@decentgarage]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Shane-dx2tl]

Great looking truck buddy. I just got a used NV 5600 6 speed tonight. I bought it for $1,000 it seems to be in great condition and was said to have driven to the parking spot where it was taken out. Thank you for the input it's nice to know that with the inch and 3/8 input shaft I have one of the best transmissions there is to put in my 2001 3500

[@hadenjohnson2183]

Great info, I’m a huge manual dodge guy and have multiple of each manuals besides the getrag. You hit all the points I could think of. Nv4500s are great for lower hp or stockish pickups, the only competition use where an nv4500 fits very well is sled pulling. Guys run tons of power through them by only using direct drive and installing 4.56-4.88 gears. For anyone putting together a street truck though the nv5600 is arguably the best choice. I’ve got one In my 03 that has around 750hp and it’s been awesome. All factory 300k mile trans. Worst part about an nv5600 imo is just how complex of transmission it is and how it’s harder to rebuild than any other dodge manual. Cody alberect has really been backing the capabilities of a g56, supposedly the early models with the lower ratio od are stronger and he can swap later .74 models to the .79 ratio. Between that and his new input shaft he’s released a g56 may be a great option for a hot rod stick shift truck

[@decentgarage]

Yeah I'd love to have the later model od gear in the earlier model G56. Thanks for all the info!

[@timhickey9687]

Great video, I can't help but think that the benefit of the cast steel case over aluminium is actually more about the gear shafts not "walking" and creating excessive backlash and adversely binding the engagement area of the gears. Aluminum is stiff, but cast steel would be better at maintaining the overall structural integrity needed in such a high torque area.

[@joshpodolsky7740]

Both our work 2nd gens have NV5600's, and I've got zero complaints with them.

[@kylezeman2177]

I owned an 01 with the nv5600, never had an issue with it. It was rebuilt prior to me owning the truck because the pilot bearing failed and damaged the input shaft, since it was appart it got a full rebuild. My biggest complaint about it was the jump between 5th and 6th when towing, could have used a gear in between. Didn't bother me when i was empty but when i went with a load i usually was loaded to about 150% of rated gross weight... operator error. Buddy of mine had a 98.5 24v with the nv 4500 in it. That one shifted lot quicker than the 6 speed. Nicer for streat racing due to shift delay. The 6 speed shifted nice, but had to give it a full second. A 10 speed Eaton or something like that would be awesome for towing with the new 6.7, but thats my two cents.

[@MrPland1992]

The nv4500 5th gear nut will not grenade the transmission if it backs off. If 2wd, pull the driveshaft and tail housing and simply screw the nut back on. YOU MUST USE GL4 TRANS FLUID! It’s like $300 for a full rebuild kit and very easy. You must buy a bearing puller and heavy duty lock ring pliers along with a new main shaft.

[@decentgarage]

Great info! Yeah I've heard the fluid for the nv4500 is ridiculously expensive

[@sonysoyboysaremadeoftears.7404]

False. The 5th gear nut sits on the main output shaft and it absolutely under no circumstances fall off of that shaft into the other gears of the transmission. How do I know this? I had it happen to me and I fixed it with the transmission still in the truck.

[@georgeenriquez612]

The G56 AE model for the win😎🤘🏻 That’s by far my favorite manual transmission. I do own two trucks with NV4500’s and I’ve always like them as well. Great video Tim!

[@decentgarage]

In a 1st gen you honestly can't go wrong with any of these options.

[@landensabourin4976]

Make sure to replace clutch components if you get any sort of vibration through it seen the g56 cracking bell housings before from bad clutches

[@decentgarage]

Yep good call

[@lordtahoe]

I have a gen 1 , gen 2 and gen 3. All 4:10 gear ratio. NV 4500 had been the GOAT. The NV 5600 after the updates and rebuild bullet proof. G56 is weak ass trans. This will be the third time I have it out and have the third gear synco fix. 1st has a NV4500 with all the updates. I pull 12k with all the time. It has been a monster. The 2cd gen, NV5600 has been rebuilt. It is a monster. 15k pull all the time Now the third gen has given me hell. All trans have coolers on them The

[@darrellyoder2602]

EXCELLENT VIDEO! There is so much confusion/ inaccurate information out there about this topic and others surrounding dodge diesels. I didn't see the g56 swap coming, hopefully it works great for you. I have a suggestion for a future video. You did a great job explaining the manual tranny options for a cummins, why not do the same for the automatics that dodge offered, and explain all the misinterpreted things from the diesel forums( which transmission was offered when, which trannys had overdrive, which ones had lockup torque converters.) Just my $.02.

[@decentgarage]

Thanks! That's a great idea for the automatic transmission video! I'll look in to doing that.

[@FNOasmodeusYURBADKID]

Thank you for speaking so clear it’s very nice

[@billy-zx10r]

I’ve gotten 06 3500 all I do is use it for pulling but you get on the freeway sixth gear at about 65 mile an hour you’re about to red line, it’s screaming. I hate getting on the freeway with it, but it’ll pull anything

[@edwardpoff575]

I have a G56 in my 07.5. I’d love to have one in my 1st gen. Can’t wait to see the install

[@decentgarage]

I can't wait either haha

[@Ratkill9000]

There is one small caveat I'd like to add with the NV4500, actually two now. They were offered in the 3rd Gen Ram trucks behind the 5.7 Hemi 2500. I know this because I had just worked on one that came in on trade. Wasn't the NV3500 that would have been physically too small and this one had a removable bellhousing, where as far as I can remember the NV3500 did not as it was casted into the whole assembly. Another thing, there was a company that did make a 5th gear kit to fix the NV4500, however unfortunately they have gone out of business about 10 years ago now. They were a reputable source and I think a sponsor of the 4BTswap forum. For the reason alone of the 5th gear nut backing off, I'd go for the NV5600, if I was sticking strictly with MOPAR. When I had looked at doing a 4BT or 12 valve swap in a truck 13 years ago when a guy in trade school had an '86 F350 crew cab long bed that he bought with a ZF5-47s and 12 valve swap, I was kind of hooked. But I was going for either an OBS F150 or a F250 Super Duty to do a swap in. My plan was either the M5R2 for the F150 or going with a PowerStroke version of the ZF6, because some conversion companies have found out that the Triton gas versions of the ZF6 from the Super Duty trucks will not mate up, the input shafts are different.

[@dannygoebel1840]

good to know i have the best of the best in my 01 3500 nv5600. i love the trans its smooth as butter

[@decentgarage]

Definitely a great setup!

[@The_Lincoln_Penny]

I had a 1993 1st gen with the Getrag. I bought it with 29k miles and the Getrag had the “sound of imminent death” . I bought the extended warranty because I didn’t expect it to last more than a couple of months. The tranny finally died at 179k miles. It was only at stock power for the first month I owned it. Torque at the rear wheels was just north of 1k lb/ft for a couple of years before it died. Believe it or not, I ran Rotella 5w40 synthetic in the tranny (engine too). I filled it through the shifter so that the oil level was greater than just filling it through the fill plug on the side.

[@mikemore4353]

Nv4500 was available in limited quantities up until around 2005. It was behind the common rail in the 3rd gen.

[@beauhudson8656]

Excellent video. Simple and right to the point and the diagrams kept my attention. Very good. Thank you.

[@decentgarage]

Thanks man!

[@loganbuzby865]

Great video! I have a 93 w250 which is highly modified. Running a p7100 pump from farell diesel. Borg Warner 362sxe with massive Haley speed injectors. Still running stock rebuilt Getrag, she feels stout. Of course it’s overfilled 1 qt to help with cooling as much as possible (running royal purple full syn gear oil. I would estimate truck turned down right now is about 500whp. No issues at all, running a southbend dual disk clutch. Thanks for the info!

[@decentgarage]

Yep they are great transmissions when you treat them how they should be treated.

[@Jicatita.durango]

Hi amigo i live in Reno i like yours videos .yesterday i buy a truck here in reno it is 2002 ram 3500 with 130 Thousand miles for me is unique truck the owner pass way. I buy the truck to his wife but these truck it is on amazing condition db power turbo exhaust brake very very nice truck I can not believe the condition Happy to cheer pic with you.

[@offroadinrebel1985]

I have a 2001 2500 with a nv5600 and I absolutely love it ive drove plenty of g56 trucks also and me personally I prefer the nv5600

[@decentgarage]

Yep, just comes down to personal preference

[@DuddiesAdventure]

Nice break down Tim. Both The Dodge Whisperer and Half Way House Garage have done the G56 in their 91.5 W350 and 93 D350 Dodges. Great swap and worth the investment. Feel free to hit up either one of those guys if you have any Questions. I think Halfway House Garage has short over view video on his. My current plan is a Eaton Fuller 6406 and if I can't find the one I need then I will go G56. Great Video Tim!

[@decentgarage]

Awesome I'll check their videos out for sure! I'd love to get an Eaton at some point too

[@chrishansen7004]

id love to have an nv5600 with a gear vendors behind it, 12 speed and deep overdrive is a dream

[@decentgarage]

That would be a sweet setup, especially with 4.10 gears

[@BRWfilms]

I just found a clean looking second gen 12 valve 1994 2500 with a g56 already swapped into it. Going to pick it up Friday for $8000. I am excited 😎

[@decentgarage]

That's a steal!

[@BRWfilms]

@@decentgarage yeah! I might post a quick video of it when i get it next weekend

[@joshuawhite9651]

The case is weak part of the g56... it flexes causing the gears to misalign and then break. The internals are actually stronger than the 5600. I'm currently dealing with my g56 twisting and causing shifting issues. I absolutely love the transmission though. I'm going to have to buy replacement and cage it so it doesn't twist the casing.

[@decentgarage]

I've seen the cages but just find it hard to believe that those can preveny the twisting. Let me know how the cage is if you do that.

[@wesscarey4475]

Not sure about this. Aluminum does not do a lot of "flexing" mostly just breaking when really forced.

[@JohnDoe-ud2cc]

My 97 with a nv4500 and 4:10s is to low with stock tires. Now that I’m lifted on 37s much better, now 65mph is 2000 rpm

[@decentgarage]

That's not bad. I love 3.54 gears. It's just a great all around gear

[@wesscarey4475]

Could you please tell your experience with the NV4500? Your likes and dislikes!

[@decentgarage]

@@wesscarey4475 The nv4500 is a great transmission. It does have it's flaws but overall for a 5 speed behind a Cummins it is the go-to. What has your experience been?

[@wesscarey4475]

@@decentgarage I have an unused new old stock NV4500 in the original Chrysler box that I have not installed yet. Trying to decide if I should try some type of hopeful remedy for the 5th gear nut or, don't tow heavy or lug it in 5th gear. Because of the splines design on the shaft I know there is no sure way to fix it. Wondering how long it may take for it to come loose if driven carefully / correctly.

[@JohnDoe-ud2cc]

@@wesscarey4475 mine has 265k on it with no problems. The one thing I don’t like about it is that it uses carbon fiber synchros. Most trans fluids will eat and de-solve these synchros. So it is very very very important that you only use the proper fluid. Here is the problem with that, that fluid isn’t made anymore and is almost impossible to find. This trans has a wide ratio with a granny 1st. Comparing this with the 5600 6 speed, the 6 speed is a close ratio. Their final overdrive ratio is the same but the 5 speed has a lower first. leaving the 6 speed with an extra gear and putting them all closer together. Most people want the 6 speed 5600 because while towing you have less spread between your gears so that you can have the rpms in that sweet spot easyer. Mine has a long throw while shifting and a round top casting on it,and they don’t make a short throw shifter for it, but they do for the 98s and up.

[@1320fastback]

If I wasn't doing a Eaton with overdrive I would be putting a brownie box behind a factory Getrag. A well taken care of properly driven G360 is hard to beat.

[@lecionegoncalves218]

Tanks great video I have 2004 5.9 24 valves cumins 6 speed I loved my truck

[@Eric2300jeep]

My mid year 2003 has the NV4500. 5th gear fell off at around 275k. Barely ever lugged it. It's just one of those inevitable things & it won't grenade the trans, you just won't have overdrive. Drove it like that for 2 weeks. 5th is all the way in the back of the trans, technically not even in the main case and is easily fixable by removing the rear tail housing. 5th gear will just be hanging out on the back of the shaft. For reference, mine is a 4x4 model. Slid it back on, added the nut fix & it's now pushing 294k.

[@sarge12212]

I got lucky with mine. 2000 non53 block 2500 HD with NV5600 6speed. It did have the smaller trans shaft. But when the synchros started to go out in 5th and 6th, I had it rebuilt to the beefier spec. It's my forever truck, lol. 😎👌

[@JohnDoe-ud2cc]

My friends 2004 3rd gen came with a nv4500 and a 271 transfer case

[@decentgarage]

Interesting.

[@robertparrish5542]

Fantastic information. Grate job keep up the good work. Look forward to seeing more

[@decentgarage]

Glad it was helpful 👍

[@loganflorida462]

They did also change where reverse was on the 2 different g56 trans. The first Gen reverse was beside 1st gear and the 2nd Gen was beside 2. Small clarification that is not really noteworthy but figured I’d tell you 🤙🏼

[@decentgarage]

This is actually not true. All g56's from 05.5+ had reverse to the bottom left next to 2nd 👍

[@devinmanderson]

Eaton fuller swap solved everything...wish I still had that truck was a beast.

[@decentgarage]

I'll give an Eaton a try one of these days 👍

[@devinmanderson]

@@decentgarage its alot of research to find the right model and all the parts. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 speed

[@timothylessing4774]

After watching this I made some notes driving my 98 turbo whistle. 3 to 4 shift isn't that big of a jump. It's less than 2-3 and it's certainly less than the 1st-2nd. Shifting up at 2000 RPM 2nd = 1000 to 1020rpm 3rd = 1075 4th = 1150rpm 5th = 1475rpm I have noticed that fifth gear is only half a gear before but recording this definitely hammers that fact home. I would love if my overdrive was .73:1 or .72:1 like the baby 13 🤗 RTLOO-913 Ideal pickup transmission. Aluminium housing yessir 👍

[@PotatoeJoe69]

I'd go with a Tremec Magnum. It's a beefed up version of the tr6060, which has proven itself one of the strongest, versatile and most reliable manuals on the market. The Magnum can handle 700ft lbs, which is plenty for what I'd want. I would just turn up the fuel on the stock pump, new air intake and exhaust and call it good. I'm not looking for 500hp, I'm O.K with just massaging maybe 50 more hp out of an otherwise stpck 5.9.

[@eulaliolopezjr]

Cant wait to see the videos on the g56 swap. I definitely intend on doing a g56 swap on my 4th gen when my automatic goes out

[@decentgarage]

I'm neck deep into the swap. I can't wait!

[@distracted716]

Yea I don't know why more people aren't putting G56 in their first gens. Maybe the thinking of all the fab/wiring work scares them away. Personally I would swap one in my 06 to get rid of the 48RE before my first gen. Can't wait to see how yours performs!

[@decentgarage]

I can't wait either!

[@berwynbenderjr3888]

i bought my dodge in 1990 an currently have over 400,000 miles on the G360 trans. it's been good. the only thing i did was modify the vent for it. Just ran a hose up the firewall. cause the check ball was leaking.

[@bigmurph1447]

I have shifted and drove the nv4500 nv5600 and g56. The nv4500 and nv5600 shift the best. I still dive a g56 everyday I don't like it shifts hard. The nv4500 has 5th gear issues but work good the nv5600 shifts really good but are expensive. The nv4500 has the big jump between 3 and 4th. My vote is the either nv4500 or nv5600.

[@decentgarage]

What clutch in the G56? Gotta have the right clutch in it

[@bigmurph1447]

@@decentgarage valair dual disc street clutch. It's been in the truck since 16000 miles. Truck only has 53000 miles on it. Truck is a 2012 35004wd crew cab. I like the nv better they shift smoother

[@bentleyjarrard885]

I ordered a 2005.5 model when it first became available. When the dealer later contacted me they the dreaded Good News/Bad scenario. The truck had arrived but Dodge had initiated a system wide hold on deliveries due to reports of the G56 having catastrophic failures within days of driving off the lot. I was so disappointed but decided to wait for the cause of the failures to be determined before cancelling the order. Luckily, the problem was due to the factory lubricant fill being inadequate. Once they topped up the fluid I went and picked up the truck. Unfortunately withing a couple of months the synchro's for L failed and had to be repaired under warranty. Perhaps it was partially my fault although based on the fact there is now 350,000 miles on the vehicle with NO other transmission issues and the first clutch lasted 250,000, I would have to believe I'm fairly easy on my equipment. One thing that's been an ongoing annoyance ever since the warranty trans rebuild is difficulty shifting into 2nd gear when at a dead stop. Its like the shift collar gets jammed and cannot engage all the way.

[@bennyc6694]

Excellent video, good recommendations! I've always been curious about these things

[@decentgarage]

Glad it was helpful!

[@IronHorseGarage]

Great video and information sir!!! Very good stuff, can't wait to watch your conversion!!

[@decentgarage]

Thanks guys! I'll be fueled by hoy pockets for sure! 🤣

[@IronHorseGarage]

@@decentgarage Hahaha!!

[@JeanPernicia]

I think that the NV 4500 and 5600 have an additional advantage: They have external slave cylinders. It's way easier to replace the slave cylinders when they fail.

[@decentgarage]

I'm pretty sure all dodge manual transmissions have an external slave... 🤔

[@timothylessing4774]

I am not completely convinced that lugging them has any effect on the synchros. Synchros are only used when shifting from one gear to the next

[@brcron007]

Great info Tim. You make me want to put a six speed in my crew more and more 👍👍👍

[@tigerseye73]

Great content. Been wanting a 6 speed for my '97 for years. Thanks.

[@decentgarage]

You should do it! I've been loving it with the 6 speed. Is yours currently a 5 speed or auto?

[@tigerseye73]

@@decentgarage NV 4500, still in perfect condition. Running 3.42 axles. At 70 mph, engine is turning 2000, about 400 rpm over peak torque. Not sure if a 6 speed will bring that down closer to 1600. Another option would be Gear Vendors over/under, giving 9 usable not counting first, which I never hardly use. Would be about 4K$ to convert. Have to say it, you do excellent work. Love that square body!

[@decentgarage]

@@tigerseye73 awesome! A 6 speed would not change you too gear. It just splits 3rd gear. Gear vendor would be a great option though

[@junkygarage5552]

mmmmm good to know about this , i own 92 d350 with 5sped n i can tell synchro's going out n i had 06 g56 truck n love the g56 but like u said gearing is to low at 65 i had 2200 rpms , drove 2016 g56 and it was much better . keep up the good work cant wait to see this 6sped in ur cool truck !

[@decentgarage]

Yeah I'm stoked that i was able to find the AE model.

[@jamesmadsen1463]

Thank you!! I cant wait for the series

[@decentgarage]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@Fishinguy962]

Great video again and looking forward to your upcoming trans swap videos (planning to swap a manual in my 1st gen as well)

[@decentgarage]

Nice! Which manual are you thinking of going with?

[@anthonykaiser974]

My 05 got the G56. Great transmission but they needed the OD gears updated from the get go for the US. It would get 20 MPG on the winter fuel if you kept it down to below 50 MPH, but at 70? Maybe 18. It saw 13 on I-10 WTX doing 90 😂

[@adambatchelder4121]

I have had the nv 4500 and 5600. I like the 4500 better for daily driving and light loads , it shifts better and with 5 speeds you shift less. For heavy towing the 5600 is nicer . Ive got gear vendors overdrive s behind them both and if you have deep gears 4.10s or deeper the overdrive is really nice when empty. The guys do shift faster for sure.

[@soapybawlz9160]

the NV4500 was also offered in 2003 SO model I have one.

[@TheRustyGarageandHomestead]

So ready for these vidyas. Awsome job Mr Tim

[@decentgarage]

They're coming Mike! I'm putting more effort in to editing to help the quality so uploads aren't as frequent

[@RusticShine]

I have a 96 chevy 3500 dully with a 12v and a nv4500. Biggest concern is 5 gears isnt enough. Its screaming at 65 and i dont darr push 70

[@decentgarage]

You won't find a dodge manual that has much of a high top gear. You have a few options. Bigger tires, regear your axle, or gear vendors overdrive

[@RusticShine]

@@decentgarage was going to go with the gear vendors. I do hauling but usually it's around 4-9k lbs. And the double over drive is enticing to be able to split 4th

[@decentgarage]

@@RusticShine yep, splitting 4th with the gear vendor is so sweet!

[@coreyploof217]

Could of got the nv4500 or nv5600 in 2003 in the 3rd gen body style, the 4500 came In the non H.O. Version of the truck and the 6spd came In the high output. Don’t see a lot of 5spd 03s but they are out there

[@decentgarage]

Good point. I didn't know this but a few have pointed that out.

[@austincarver6321]

Excellent video. Very informative. Enjoyed it. Thank you.

[@isaiahjgomez1501]

That button up is fire

[@dundonrl]

I really like my 12 Ram 2500 with the G56 in it. It's getting a new throwout bearing and pressure plate right now, the rest of the South Bend Dual Disc clutch is fine and I hope to put another 230K miles on her!

[@redneckcanuckdieseltech]

I love my NV5600 I just wish the Reverse position in the top left instead like almost every medium and heavy duty truck transmission out there I go in first by accident from more often than I want to out of habit

[@MrWade1010]

Awesome, really enjoying the channel, learning a lot, keep up the good work

[@decentgarage]

Thanks Wade!

[@jacobdicesare2032]

Pretty excited for that video. I have an nv 4500 in my truck, I'd like to put a 6 speed in it. Either one would be fine. I'm only around 400hp.

[@decentgarage]

Yeah the 400 horse range is just a perfect spot to be!

[@SupramanTRD]

I've heard the complaints about the aluminum casing on the g56. As if every other transmission used in modern trucks isn't aluminum as well. I wouldn't call it a weakness as i've never seen one break simply because it was aluminum vs steel.

[@John-xb2nl]

Delo 5W-40 Synthetic oil solved our problems with the Getrag.

[@mikecowboygilbert9944]

1998 12valve swap to G56 bolts right up and game changer Awesome swap Very happy. (Automatic fell off in bushes)

[@decentgarage]

Yep it's actually pretty crazy how easy the swap has been

[@oldowl4290]

Fantastic information and very well presented!

[@josephhaugen5683]

so excited to see this!!!

[@decentgarage]

It's going to be sweet!

[@scotthanson2667]

Great Information. I actually have an 84' crew cab that im currently working on for a friend and it has the G56 trans. The only issue is fitment. It rubs against the tunnel and vibrates the floor. Hoping your series of videos will address this concern.