| Crusing in the Passing Lane Joined: Jun 2011 Posts: 5,096 | If one is hauling loads, sometimes the 3 synchro(top gears) in a 420, 435 or 465, etc, are a little awkward(far apart). NP-540 series 5 speed trans' work a lot better to solve this by having 4 closer ratio gears(besides the granny gear). They come in GM, Ford, IHC, Dodge, etc., bolt patterns.
They also come with long input shafts for 14" clutches, stock bell housings won't work with these, unless one can find a stock GM adapter plate, about .25" thick, and associated bellhousing(come on SBC in big trucks.)
Look for Al top cover, 4 shift rails-look just like a 435 with one more shift rail.
Ed
'37 GMC T-18 w/ DD 4-53T, RTO-610, 6231 aux., '95 GMC running gear, full disc brakes, power steering, 22.5 wheels and tires.
'47 GMC 1 ton w/ 302, NP-540, 4wd, full width Blazer front axle.
'54 GMC 630 w/ 503 gasser, 5 speed, ex fire truck, shortened WB 4', install 8' bed.
'55 GMC 370 w/270, 420 4 speed, grain, dump bed truck from ND. Works OK.
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