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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@DasMoose9001]

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

[@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

[@ajs96350]

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

[@decentgarage]

100% agree!

[@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

[@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.

[@mikemore4353]

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

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@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 👍

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@ram_diesel_power6039]

So why would you want something geared high in reverse. Nothing like burning clutches up while backing up trailers.

[@decentgarage]

That's a great point. I slightly .I spoke on that point. When the AE came out consumers liked the higher od gear but we're not happy that they regeared reverse as well.

[@jeremymyers5643]

Use low range

[@bradleyhuth8329]

Awesome video man. I also really liked your series where you installed the g56 in your truck. Did you notice a significant difference in power/fuel economy when going form your automatic to the g56? I have a 1993 W250 with a 47rh. Thinking about swhiching to the NV5600, but not sure it will be worth the expense. I'd love some feedback form any of your guys who have done the swap.

[@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

[@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.

[@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”.

[@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.

[@sebastianluna830]

To keep it a buck with you I have a 8 to 900 hp at the wheels Dually that’s lifted at 12 inches n I’ve gone through two rebuilds and four clutch replacements. The one thing I will say about the G 56 after owning it for seven years I’m surprised at the mf bc it does not give up. I hear horror stories about the case splitting but I’ve never had more than a third gear chip on me. Also another word of advice to you G 56 guys stick to Southbend clutch 10 out of 10 would recommend for horsepower its quiet and more importantly it lasts

[@sebastianluna830]

I just wanted to add this I’m 48 RE swapping my mega cab and taking the G 56 and putting it into my 12 valve second GEN so I’m really looking forward to any content related to swapping

[@decentgarage]

Yeah I've heard many people say they are shocked at how much this transmission tolerates.

[@decentgarage]

That will be awesome!

[@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

[@bennyc6694]

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

[@decentgarage]

Glad it was helpful!

[@danielupton1750]

So I hear there's a six-speed option from eating Fuller that you can put in there a guy on the bus garage put one behind us 24 valve but from what I hear the bolt right up to a 12v. And one time when I was in Tennessee this guy put a Eaton Fuller 12 speed behind his said he never had a problem he just had to rev it up real high when he wanted to put it in the higher gears.

[@caseygilles3672]

Lugging an engine doesn’t effect blocker/ syncro seeing as they are only engaging during shift input. Gear ratios? Hp capacity? Case lengths?

[@wesscarey4475]

Thank you Casey for pointing that out. I was going to comment on that as well. syncros are damaged by shifting, not by engine lugging.

[@panchovillaz8004]

Gracias thanks 👍 NV5600 is the best

[@josephhaugen5683]

so excited to see this!!!

[@decentgarage]

It's going to be sweet!

[@ryanlaporte906]

I also don't like how short the first gear is too. It's like a "granny gear". I have a '93 12v.

[@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.

[@bradenkylegreen]

I have a 1994 12 valve dually automatic and I wanna manual swap it what should I do and is it easy

[@MrSehka77]

I have 97 12v 5 speed extended cab long bed 4x4 original thats the best combo

[@NoNo-in5tu]

Just curious - how does one ruin synchros by lugging with a load? I've only ever known grinding gears to ruin synchros

[@segfault31]

Great video. Thank you.

[@decentgarage]

Glad it was helpful.

[@bobkonradi1027]

Which manual transmission is best to swap into a 12V Cummins..? The one least likely to break under the monstrous torque the engine puts out. Look for the one with the highest rated torque capacity. And the best reputation for not breaking. Talk to a lot of different people and get their feedback. I'm assuming you're going to be pulling big loads.

[@joelcatlin7246]

ZF6 is the best in my opinion!

[@LTDan-pk3mx]

Hey Tim, I have a quick 3 dollar question. I have an 85 chevy one ton grew cab 2WD with a 1st gen cummins Huge Clark 5 speed manual. After watching this video I am debating installing the 05.5 to 07 G56 simply for the low reverse. The Clark is Way to high geared in reverse making it impossible to backup with a heavy loaded trailer (like a 45 ft toy hauler 16800 dry) Thank you ahead of time for your input!! What would you suggest for this puller?

[@decentgarage]

Sounds like the earlier (AD) model would be a great fit. Or you can throw a tcase on it and put it in low range 👍

[@specializ20]

4th gear in the nv4500 is on the main shaft. How is lugging it in 4th going to cause the 5th gear nut to come off? That's not right. 4th is direct which in sure you know. Direct is the strongest gear in any gearbox

[@wesscarey4475]

100% correct, thank you.

[@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

[@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!

[@loganblackenter4936]

I hope you know the g56 can handle up to 900 hp stock from factory not 500 to 600hp I have I a 06 g56 ad and it handles it just fine

[@decentgarage]

Wow and yours is stock? That's great news honestly as I had not heard it could handle numbers that high!

[@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!

[@jasonnorman8976]

Thanks for the clarification! great vid. Can someone tell me ... does the adapter plate from a 2nd gen 12V cummins (currently 47RE) mate up to the nv5600 ? Or does this require a different adapter plate ? Thanks in advance

[@decentgarage]

The second gen adaptor plate is the same regardless of it being manual or auto 👍

[@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

[@michaelmongillo1237]

I'm curious about what you all think about the Ford ZF6.? I have a 05 with its transfer and axles. Is it good behind a 7.3, and what about behind a 5.9.???

[@decentgarage]

In my opinion the zf6 is the pinnacle of light duty manual transmissions and would mate well with a 5.9

[@casecracka6770]

G56 is the best. YOU KNOW IT!

[@jburford89]

False, I was running 750-800hp out of my 07.5 G56 with valair dual disc and was trouble free for 2 years while I had it.

[@decentgarage]

Agreed, they are great transmissions and hold up to high horsepower

[@THOMAS01ify]

Thier is a 5th option eaton fuller 5 ,6 and 7 speed no air required , if your hit more than 500hp these transmission can take it pluse thier close ratio wide ratio and can put out as much as 1640lb of tourq. Chk it out .and if you really hard up for towing and willing to an air pump installed a 8 sped with an auto 9 over or even a 10 speed will get you thier.

[@decentgarage]

Can you tell me more about the Eaton's? I've heard of them but don't know much. I may be building a 650 HP ppump towing rig and I'd like a stout transmisson.

[@paulandreassen9964]

Super informative. Thanks.

[@decentgarage]

Thanks Paul!

[@tylerhovdebo]

I just bought a 24 valve. 2000. Thomas school bus. Which auto transmission is in it. Thank you

[@decentgarage]

I believe the school buses actually came with Allison transmissions behind the Cummins engines

[@bobbybeyer2127]

I know you specifically said that you weren't going to talk about them but the ZF5 is better than any of the Dodge 5-speeds and the ZF6 is better than any of the Dodge 6-speeds. I'm an automatic guy through and through but if I was going to swap a manual I would certainly go with a ZF transmission.

[@decentgarage]

Right you are. Someday I'll throw a ZF in one of these trucks or just do a Fummins build.

[@hellrzr_6158]

The NV5600 is the best manual transmission dodge put in there trucks.

[@decentgarage]

According to some

[@oscarvogel2140]

What about the ZF trany? Heard it handles the cummins vibrations better than an NV.

[@decentgarage]

This video only covered trans options that have been available behind the light duty Cummins. But the ZF is up there for sure

[@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!

[@shanemedlin9400]

Losing the fifth gear doesn't grenade the tyranny. You simply put it back together and put the fifth gear solution on it.

[@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…….

[@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.

[@jarrodforet3557]

Im looking for a 12 valve Cummins diesel automatic transmission

[@decentgarage]

I'm keeping mine to put in another truck.

[@TAShannon1]

I rebuild manual transmissions and specialize in the G360, NV4500, 5600, G56, ZF5 and ZF6. Opinion: G360 < NV5600 < NV4500 < ZF5 < G56 < ZF6 G360 is too sloppy, 5600 is highly overrated, NV4500 is okay but still a 5spd, ZF5 is a better 5 spd, G56 nice operating trans, The ZF6 is king in almost every single measurable way.

[@decentgarage]

Glad you chimed in here. I have not been disappointed at all with the g56. I plan on eventually putting a zf6 behind a 12 valve 👍

[@TAShannon1]

@Decent Garage I've got an NV4500 on my personal truck and am also wanting to swap a zf6 I just haven't gotten around to it. They hold great power, they shift the smoothest/fastest by quite a bit, they run cooler than all others due to the fact that zf6 is the only tranny with a pump and cooler. Also they have the most ideal gear ratios

[@decentgarage]

@@TAShannon1 any chance you have a spare nv4500 shifter sitting around that works with the square stub?

[@TAShannon1]

@@decentgarage yes sir we have a couple. Where are you out of?

[@decentgarage]

@@TAShannon1 I'm in Utah but I'll pay for shipping and for the part! Find me on Instagram gram @decent_garage or email me at [e-mail]

[@cosanostra4286]

The best for the 12v is the Allison

[@jayg479]

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

[@decentgarage]

Yep! Love the G56!

[@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

[@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!!

[@manuelsarria1377]

I have a 1996 Dodge Ram 3500 turbodiesel 5.9 Cummins all stock manual transmission I don’t know what it is...... is has L123Dr is that a nv4500?

[@decentgarage]

Yes, that would be the nv4500 👍

[@manuelsarria1377]

@@decentgarage okay thanks I had this truck since 1999 and all ways wounding if I could upgrade this tranny I always felt it needed a 6 gear glad I found your video hopefully I can do it! Thanks again

[@adamlivelife2608]

Need a video on what trans fit and can be swapped into what year Cummins

[@decentgarage]

Pretty much any trans from 94-18 will fit into a 12 valve with a second gen adaptor plate. In the newer automatics you have to figure out how to control them electronically

[@codywillis3617]

Will these pairings also work with a 2nd gen body

[@decentgarage]

Yes, they all will

[@Carla-tz7qw]

7 speed Eaton. You won't have a splitter. Just 7 gears and reverse. Bell housing fits

[@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.

[@JT01991]

So sounds to me the nv5600 is the most reliable?

[@decentgarage]

Hard to say. There are those in the g56 camp and those in the nv5600 camp

[@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.

[@jeremyst.george6711]

I love manuals, but when it comes to a zf6 super duty, I'd rather have an automatic 😂 I hate 6 speed trucks. I don't mind 5 speed trucks, and I love 3-4 speed trucks

[@JOHNWAYNE1920]

I have a 2018 G56 and reverse is way too high. I had to install a 4wd low lock front dif disable just to back trailer without burning the clutch. Could I get a reverse gear from ad model and have it installed in mine?

[@dannypaulross9654]

Hey man it's me again lol. I have another question/ story. I have a 93 4x4 Cummins automatic with a newer 47 that has overdrive and lockup. I have the OD and lockup on switches. I do not have a aftermarket fuel pin but I have my ve pump turned all the way up. I have never had any problems with my Transmission in the past before I turned the pump all the way up. Now when I'm pulling a load running say 60 and floor it when it builds boost it will slip in OD with the converter locked up. Is this going to be the Transmission or the torque converter? It acts like a clutch slipping in a standard trans. Any help will be appreciated . Thanks.

[@decentgarage]

Sounds like your kickdown cable is out of adjustment which will cause it to fall out of od under load.

[@paramax55]

I have the G56 AD with 410 gears. I can confirm it sucks. 70mph is about all I want to do. It will pull an apartment building, but not very fast.

[@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.

[@ClaremontClassicGarage]

In a 1gen I'll take a G-rag every time.

[@decentgarage]

Yep, there are many in the same camp as you. I think they're great transmissions as well

[@rileychristian1300]

I'm going to have to laugh my butt off really quick. the AD model G56 was geared way too high in reverse. you have to ride the clutch to get it to back up to a trailer slow enough to do anything. and the overdrive isn't that bad. you can go 70mpg at 2200rpm. that's what my 7.3 does. I learned to drive on a 2006.5 Ram 3500 5.9 G56 with 4.10 gears, and that thing was a beast. it consistently tows everything that you ask it to and it performs well. I think that the biggest reason they swapped to the AE model G56 was that it is built a little stouter and can hold up better to the 6.7 Cummins.

[@decentgarage]

Glad i could provide a laugh 👍. I'm anxious to see how the reverse gear is.

[@DTM.Desperado]

How much power can my stock getrag handle on my 12v 1st gen cummins?

[@decentgarage]

It all depends on how you drive it. I've seen 500hp trucks with a getrag. I actually like them better than the nv4500

[@DTM.Desperado]

@decentgarage I've been hearing some people like them, and to just keep it topped off with fluid at all times. I mostly just want a reliable tow rig that's not terribly slow to daily drive. But I have several other sports cars so It doesn't need to be driven too hard, basically just want it to be as fast as possible while still being reliable and good at towing

[@claytonsuarez8276]

I have a 97 dually that has a auto, before I buy a donor, what transmission do you suggest? Like I stated it's a daily, so 75-80% of the time she's dry but when I do haul it ranges from a 20ft dump trailer to heavy. I honestly have no idea what gears I have in the rear diff but I am able to run 80+mph down highway with out redlining or putting to much stress on my truck. I'm not light with my foot but I do baby the first 3 gears before over drive kicks in and I can get my real speed lol. Any suggestions or comments welcome! Any and every bit of help is greatly appreciated, I'm still kinda new to the diesel world

[@decentgarage]

You really need to figure out what gear ratio you have. There is a tag on the rear pumpkin that will say. Then you need to decide if it's a daily driver or if you'll be towing with it. If you'll be towing a lot the 6 speed is the way to go. The even spacing between each gear is amazing

[@coltonjvda8031]

Good vid only thing nv4500s don’t gernade when they lose 5th I’ve lost it three times and have put about 30,000kms on it in 4th gear and known of a lot of people with the same issue

[@truthleaker222]

My 2004.5 has a NV 5600 swap with a transfer case though it is 2WD. I will have to rebuild the transfer case soon because of a seal failure causing bearing damage. I have contemplated replacing the transmission with a rebuilt 2WD and modify the driveline to eliminate the transfer case. I know I could do a 4wd differential swap at more expense and effort, but would still need a rebuild on the transfer case. So it will depend on resources. My question is, if I replace it with a 2WD G56, will the crossmember need to be moved again?

[@decentgarage]

I'm not sure on that. I believe the nv5600 is a but longer but I'm not positive

[@wanderingquestions7501]

I have a 2017 RAM/Cummins with the G56. It shifted great until I put a Valaire dual disc clutch in. To meet Valaire clutch pedal adjustment specs the trans no long shifts well into 2nd or 1st. However, at a street light, my work-around is to shift to 4th then 2nd then 1st. It takes no effort then. My complaint about the G56? It’s reverse with the high differential gear set is WAY TOO HIGH. Backing a trailer is absolutely miserable with the high reverse. Using 4wheel low works good but then one’s steering is compromised

[@jimschaffroth5652]

I know nothing of the G56. I have a NV5600. It's a good transmission. The forum I frequent is plagued with G56 failures.

[@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!

[@JimPorter-u5b]

Hi there Iam looking into doing a Cummins swap intoy GMC 1500 sierra 4x2 and cannot find anyone that has done this type of conversion ,I have a 1999 6bt engine and a standard zf 5 speed box that matches up with the Cummins in the 7.5 ton DAF truck here in the UK ,but the problem is the box has a side mounted output shaft for the gear shifter and I need a top mounted,the boxes you suggested are all good in the US but are like hens teeth and pigs licks to get in the UK .but I haven't seen any 2 wheel driver 3/4 ton trucks with this conversion,it has coils on the front which I am sure we can update to carry the weight .please could anyone advise on which way would be the best to proceed bearing in mind I an in the UK thanks Jim

[@garydirodis1751]

Two questions, what oil do you recommend for the getrag? Did my exhaust brake grenade my 2003 six speed 3500. I towed heavy for 40,000 miles.

[@decentgarage]

I haven't replaced the oil in my getraf yet so I'm not even sure what I would go with.

[@taylorferguson2531]

Looking for a truck like this please

[@decentgarage]

Good luck 👍

[@lancemiller9110]

What transfer case do you have behind the G56? Are there aftermarket adapters to put the NP 205 behind the G56 or the NVG 5600? I’d hate to acquire a superior transmission and sacrifice for an inferior transfer case

[@decentgarage]

I'm running the np205. It will bolt right up to any of the dodge manual transmissions 👍

[@chadximiness8741]

What did you use for paint on transmission?

[@decentgarage]

Rustoleum 👍

[@isaachoferer9864]

I have a question, I have a 1996 dodge ram 2500 with the 8.0 v10 with the NV4500 manual transmission, I’d like to swap it to a Cummins and I want to know if that’s possible and what parts I would need, some people say all I need is the motor, is that true