5 speed swap 83 k10

[scottwv]

I have an 83 k10 w/ 4speed and 208 transfer case.  Is it possible to use a 5 speed from a 88-95 in it.  Has anyone done or tried this conversion?  Thanks for any help or advise.

[cracker0169]

I have considered the swap myself. Depending on the transmission (3550 or 4500) your issue will be the adapter that bolts to the transfer case.  I like the idea of a 5 speed but that is also one more thing to break on the trail or in the mud. One thing I do not like about the 3550 (not sure of 4500) is that the bellhousing is part of the trans. Major pain to swap a clutch out. If you decided to do the swap, you would have to use the clutch pedal assembly off of a 85-87 since they used a hydro throwout bearing.  If it were me, Id ditch the 208 and find a 205 and be good to go!

[Captkaos]

It would be easier (in my opinion) to go to the NV4500.  The NV3550 in the 1/2T trucks aren't half as strong as the SM465 that you currently have.  This is a fairly popular swap.