Quote:
Originally Posted by robreil
So whats the cheapest way to do it?
|
If you presently have a bellhousing with a 5-1/8" center hole, the cheapest route would be to use a Dodge NV4500 and the 712550 adaptor plate. This will let you keep your existing clutch linkage. IMO, this is also the least work to install. The plate is about $275 from Advance Adapters.
If you don't have a suitable bellhousing, and are willing to (or want to) convert to hydraulic linkage, use a GM transmssion and a stock NV4500 bell that matches the year of the transmission. If you did the work yourself, I would think it shouldn't cost more than $200 even if you bought all new parts for the hydraulic conversion.
If you want mechanical linkage, use a GM transmission and an aftermarket bell like 712577 for 93-95 and 712576 for 96-up. Either bellhousing is about $400 from Advance.
An unmodified GM transmission will NOT work with the 712550 plate because its input shaft isn't long enough. You might be able to use a GM trans if you installed a Dodge input shaft and bearing retainer, but I don't know for sure about the parts interchangeability, so won't suggest this until I can find out more.
If you are wanting to build a 4WD truck, it will probably be cheaper to buy a 4WD NV4500 with the transfer case already married to it. This way, you won't have to worry about finding (and paying for) the right adaptor.
Ray