Thread: 5 speed trans options for a 4.8 or 5.3 Chevy motor?

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I've decided to put an LS motor in my 67 GMC pickup. You might have seen my last post where I was looking at an auto trans, but have decided I really want a manual 5 speed trans.

I'm looking at used LS motors - mostly the 4.8 and 5.3. The 4.8 apparently was sold in some 1/2 chevy trucks with a 5 speed, but I'm not sure which 5 speed. If I can find a used 4.8 already mated to a 5 speed, it seems to make sense to go that route. If not, I'd prefer the little extra hp and torque of the 5.3.

When I googled the different transmissions, it looks like there are the NV3500, NV4500 and the tremec t-5. I plan on at least 300 hp and I'll probably drive the truck pretty aggressively, so don't want a wimpy transmission. Any input on the pros and cons of these different transmissions and what cars they came out of? (so I know what parts cars to look for).

Will the different trans have issues mating up to a 5.3 LS motor (probably about year 2000 to 2008)? Will there be computer issues between a 5.3 motor from one vehicle and a 5 speed from another? I've read this can be an issue with auto transmission swaps. There are no smog requirements for my truck in California due to it's age.

What about stick shift locations? Any difference between the trans?

How about clutches? I prefer a hydraulic clutch- will this be a problem with any of the transmissions?

Thanks!

Great information given!! Here is some more. LS Installation Questions and Answers - TriFive.com, 1955 Chevy 1956 chevy 1957 Chevy Forum , Talk about your 55 chevy 56 chevy 57 chevy - Belair , 210, 150 sedans , Nomads and Trucks, Research, Free Tech Advice Pete

The NV4500 was used in a lot of full sized GM trucks and is a good choice for your application. Wikipedia catalogs a lot of good info on where you can look for one - New Venture Gear 4500 transmission - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
You might also ask the guys at Pacific Fabrication (where you were considering getting an engine/electronics package) if they can hook you up with a tranny, too?

The Tremec T5 is a lighter duty transmission, and you'd probably want to go through it and replace parts with beefier aftermarket pieces before trusting a used one in a truck, especially given that you're planning to drive "aggressive". I think I'd look for an NV4500, unless you want to save your pennies for a Tremec TKO 500 or 600....

The NV4500 would be your best bet. They were put right behind the LS engines and GM used these transmissions since the the early 90's so they are plentiful.