Transmission advice

[Shredin38]

I currently have a np435 transmission in my 74 Bronco and it just doesn't have the overdrive needed for highway driving. Can anyone please tell me which transmission I should try and switch to and how much the conversion would cost.

I understand that the NV4500 is about $3000 for a complete swap kit, but I'm not sure how expensive it would be to switch over the the automatic C4 or C6 transmissions. I also don't know the advantages/disadvantages of the different types.

And thanks for reading this far, any advice will be welcome.

Chris

 

[Bandit]

I currently have a np435 transmission in my 74 Bronco and it just doesn't have the overdrive needed for highway driving.  Can anyone please tell me which transmission I should try and switch to and how much the conversion would cost.
I understand that the NV4500 is about $3000 for a complete swap kit, but I'm not sure how expensive it would be to switch over the the automatic C4 or C6 transmissions.  I also don't know the advantages/disadvantages of the different types.

And thanks for reading this far, any advice will be welcome.

Chris

32809[/snapback]

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The NV 4500,is very heavy duty,and feels very trucklike.The NV3550 is not as heavy duty but is still pretty stout.An NV3550 has a sportier,quicker shifting feel to it.I've owned both,and like the 3550 better.But if your'e gonna abuse your rig on the extreme treacherous stuff,the 4500 will hold up better.A 3550 is just a bit cheaper.

BANDIT &lt

 

[Bully Bob]

Might want to talk to Toms Br. parts....or Wild Horses....They've tried them all. /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" />

 

[umop-3plsdn]

I currently have a np435 transmission in my 74 Bronco and it just doesn't have the overdrive needed for highway driving.  Can anyone please tell me which transmission I should try and switch to and how much the conversion would cost.
I understand that the NV4500 is about $3000 for a complete swap kit, but I'm not sure how expensive it would be to switch over the the automatic C4 or C6 transmissions.  I also don't know the advantages/disadvantages of the different types.

And thanks for reading this far, any advice will be welcome.

Chris

32809[/snapback]

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I run an NV4500 unit in my 74 with a 302, 4.11 gears and 31" tires. I wouldn't have it any other way. 18 mpg highway (cruising at 70 mph at 2200 rpm), granny low for climbing - best of both worlds. But if you are into racing you may not like it becasue it is not a quick shift. It was pricey but pretty much unbreakable though (so far...)

You'll hear the NV4500 does not have a speedo gear - yours comes out of your transfer case /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" />

 

[STLKIKN]

There would be no advantage going to a C-4 or C-6 if you are looking for an O/D gear, neither C series auto has one.

The A4OD (4R70), and E4OD (4R100) autos are the ones you would be looking at.

As for the NV 4500, it is a big heavy slow shifting unit that is completely suited for hard wheelin.

The NV 3550 is a great tranny for the average driver, and it will take some good abuse as well, it is smaller and lighter than the 4500. A complete kit with transmission (no pressure plate or release is included in the kit) will run you under $2500. (in most cases no driveline mods are necessary with this tranny)

Another option that is becoming more popular is the Ford ZF 5 speed O/D tranny found in later small block F 150s and Broncos. Only one adaptor is needed (to the t/case) and it is smaller than an NV 4500 as well.

Personally, I would vote for either the ZF (although the cost savings on adaptors can be made up rather quickly with driveline mod costs) or my favorite the NV 3550.

I have two 3550 trannied EBs and have no gripes with either, and would recommend this swap to almost any average user.

Check out www.advanceadapters.com for a more complete picture of your options.

Good luck with your research, and in finding a choice you are comfortable with.