73 C20 Trans Swap

[saintofanarchy]

Hey everybody, I just recently purchased a 1973 C20 with a 5.7 350 and SM465 Muncie 4 speed. I've done some research and although off-road enthusiasts swear by this transmission I'm looking for something much more city friendly, considering I don't have anything to tow and I'd rather drag than off-road this truck.

Maybe somebody out there can give me the numbers/names of a few transmissions that can EASILY be swapped into my truck. I've read about the T56 and the T5 trans but they're pricey and I'm not sure if they could just be swapped right in without modifications. Taking price out of the equation I just want the info on what transmissions are easy and better than this slug I have right now. And yes I know my truck has cable, not hydralic, clutch.

[bake74]

     Are you sticking with a standard transmission ?  You only have a few choices and they are all somewhat expensive and takes effort to install.
     You can do a search on here, there has been several members who have switched trans over the years.

[saintofanarchy]

     Are you sticking with a standard transmission ?  You only have a few choices and they are all somewhat expensive and takes effort to install.
     You can do a search on here, there has been several members who have switched trans over the years.

I appreciate the reply but you could've just replied with a link like this "http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=25047.msg208694#msg208694" and saved me the time of searching ya know. Or just dropping a model number like I asked. Do I have to say please next time?

Looks like it's gonna boil down to the T56 Super Magnum or the NV4500 transmissions. If both are gonna cost me an arm and a leg from a specialist then the T56 will be my choice. But till then I will see how the 465 Muncie holds up against Miatas and Integras with their obviously superior gear ratios.

[bake74]

I appreciate the reply but you could've just replied with a link like this "http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=25047.msg208694#msg208694" and saved me the time of searching ya know.

      I think the best way for people to learn is do it themselves.  I am sorry if I offended you, but I still feel like people should do most of the work for themselves and not expect others to do it for them.

[Blazin]

First of all you don't have a cable clutch. These truck only had two options, linkage style, or starting in 85 hydraulic style.
That being said.
 You will receive a much better reception to our family if you don't have an attitude right outa the gate.

" I appreciate the reply but you could've just replied with a link like this "http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=25047.msg208694#msg208694" and saved me the time of searching ya know. Or just dropping a model number like I asked. Do I have to say please next time? "

Comments like these are not what this board is about, or how its run.

As far as your original subject matter. Once you get used to a 3 speed with Low gear SM465 they can be driven with ease. Start out in first, after that its just a matter of using the throttle pedal correctly, & selecting the next two gears. Only time you even need the clutch is for starting & stopping. 

[roundhouse]

The NV 3500 from a 97-07 full size should be a bolt in deal


May need some mods to the crossmember

The one from an S-10 has a 3.50 first gear
The full size has a 4.0 first gear


The bell housing bolt pattern on every SBC is the same
So any trans should bolt up

Only issue is clutch disc diameter

Since you're 2 WD.  This should be easy

I'm with ya.  The 4 speed granny sucks

I'm also with the responses

That attitude won't get ya as much help as being polite 

[zieg85]

SM465 transmissions are work horses, wish all of my trucks had them.  Just like Blazin says the clutch is to just get em rollin.  I'll keep it old school if I have the high hump cab floor...

[roundhouse]

SM465 transmissions are work horses, wish all of my trucks had them.  Just like Blazin says the clutch is to just get em rollin.  I'll keep it old school if I have the high hump cab floor...

Really really

slow

work Horses

I put  a T-18 in my 74 bronco after the stock 3 speed croaked

Hated it
Swapped in a NV3550 5 speed from a Dakota.   

Love it !

If you have a dump truck the 465 or T-18 or NP 435 is great

For street driving around town in suburbs of Atlanta  the modern 5 speed is perfect

First gear is 4:1    Not as low as the 5.5 in the SM 465. But it's  very useable and easy to drive
Fun too

I have a f350 with the ZF 5 speed and it's light years better than the 465  but granny low is useless unless you're pulling a house

[VileZambonie]

I appreciate the reply but you could've just replied with a link like this "http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=25047.msg208694#msg208694" and saved me the time of searching ya know. Or just dropping a model number like I asked. Do I have to say please next time?

Or you could do it yourself "ya know"... I'm curious why you think because you are too lazy to search for something yourself that anyone else on here would be obligated to do it for you? Watch your attitude and yes you should say please if you are just going to be a lazy negative poster.

[LTZ C20]

I'm backing Vile's opinion on this. The attitude was completely out of line for a new member.

[bd]

I'm backing Vile's opinion on this. The attitude was completely out of line for a new member.

...for anyone.

[LTZ C20]

Absolutely.