Backwoods Bumpers

After my NV5600 took a dump a few weeks ago, I decided to try the G56 swap (my truck is an 01 4x4). I don't want to start another argument post about which tranny is better, I just want to let folks know what it involves. I got it all finished up last night and am very impressed with how well everything worked out. It shifts great and you would never know anything is different from inside the truck except for the custom shifter handles I made.

Ok, here is what you need

1. Transmission - I was able to get a reconditioned G56 from Dodge with the .74 6th gear (2007.5 and up) for $3500 with a 3 yr 100k warranty.

2. Clutch - If you have a nv5600, then you just need a flywheel spacer and longer bolts (remove your starter spacer). Dan at Valair hooked my up with a new FE clutch and the spacer, bolts, throwout bearing, pilot bearing, etc for a great deal.

3. Trans Crossmember - needs to be cut and lowered in the center by about in inch or a little less. I will try to post pics later.

4. Driveshafts - need to be cut to new lengths. The G56 is 2.5" shorter than the NV5600. I got my rear lengthened and from shortened for about $220

5. Adjust the 4x4 shifter linkage - takes about 30 seconds

6. If you want backup lights, you need an adapter to plug your wiring harness into the G56. I am just going to install some fog lights in my flatbed with a switch in the cab because my backup lights sucked anyway.

7. Shifter - I think you can use the late 3rd gen shifter if you bend it a little. I just made a new one because I wanted a weighted shifter *** (there was a big thread about that a while back - it makes a difference!)




All in all it was only slightly more hassle than putting the NV back in. The only difference was the driveshafts and cutting the crossmember. Oh and the G56 must weigh about 1/2 as much because it is aluminum. It was much nicer to handle. Anybody who has been thinking about this swap - I recommend it. I was surprised how easy everything went together, and it's like driving a different truck. Also, thanks robert chilton for helping me.

Gear Poet

So in all, replacing a blown 5600 with a reconditioned G56 is as cheap or cheaper than rebuilding a 5600 or finding a reconditioned 5600? And few hassles?

Good to know.

rich

glad to see they gave you a warranty better then a 12/12

Backwoods Bumpers

Yes, it ended up being about the same price if you count the mods. I could have found a NV cheaper probably, but I also really wanted to do the swap

Gear Poet

Well, when I need a 5600, and I'm sure I will - I see no reason to fight another losing battle with substandard synchros. This sounds like a good option.

johnh

EVANHOUSE, in your honest opinion do you think the g 56 is a good transmission? i know nothing about it

Backwoods Bumpers

Well, I've heard opinions both ways. Mostly, I've heard that under higher HP applications, the NV is the better six speed. My truck will never have over 450 HP and I have nothing close to that now. In my opinion, it shifts and drives way better. As for quality, I guess I will see. My NV lasted 175,000 miles. I know they both have their problems. I know a hot shotter who is on his 3rd g56 because they dont have enough oil (5th gear goes out). This time, he had it overfilled by about 2 qts and has had no more problems. For me this was the best route because I got the 3 yr 100k warranty. I guess what I'm saying is that I am no transmission guru, but I wouldn't have done the swap if I didnt think the G56 was a better choice for me.

TBittner

sorry for the rant i hate my g56. its so loud especially 5th gear. i know part of this is because of my dual disk but my buddies 05 with the NV and dual disk is so much quiter

rich

its ok have 2 trucks with it, add extra oil and change it about every 25 to 30k and it will last