Posted by R Davis on Thursday, December 07, 2000 at 19:11:08:
In Reply to: 318/ NV4500 conversion posted by Dave Pratt on Thursday, December 07, 2000 at 18:36:14:
I considered that swap some years back but could only get limited tech info due to a lack of internet access(and computer).I have a few articles from past 4X4 mags. that show it was considered a great upgrade due to the OD,for more modern trucks.Advance adapters now offer the NV4500HD tranny in some of its kits.I gave up on a WM300 project due to the info supplied by an individual on this forum who seemed to know what they were talking about and said due to its lenght,the NV4500 was too long to work with the existing short shaft between the transfer case and transmission without relocating the transfer case thus requiring new and modified driveshafts to be made.Maybe another transfer case that mates to the tranny would work.Also consider if the shftstick would be close to the orriginal.Transfer case shift lever mounting would need to be considered.
Just about anything can be done or adapted but at what cost in money or tastefulness?
I wanted to simply add the NV4500 for the OD and keep everything else original,but since it seemed to be near impossible ,I gave up.If your goal is not offended by replacing most of the drive line except the axles,it would be a simpler task.Check with ADvance adapters for the options they offer.
Good luck and keep us posted in case you find out something new.