dangina

I installed a used nv4500 and it has no 5th gear. i hear there is a nut that backs off but i haven't taken the tailshaft off yet to see. Curious if its just a nut can't you buy another one and double nut it to prevent it from backing off? also is it a special nut or can i buy it just about anywhere? also how far do you torque it back on and at what torque? thanks

Backwoods Bumpers

Yes, there are several different styles of aftermarket 5th gear nuts that have been offered so far. Many people also choose to tack weld the new one on to the shaft. I believe 325 ft-lb but better double-check. It doesn't set any preload - just holds the gear on.

gorms

It is a special nut, I wouldn't recommend welding the nut to the shaft. If it has come off, only "true" fix is a new shaft with full splines from quad4x4. It is pricey though, and you have to completely tear down the gear sets to change the shaft out. The Dodge fix is a split nut with a screw to clamp it tight, works OK. It is also a special "socket" to fit the 4 groves around the nut, but if you just want to get it going a pipe wrench will tighten it. Crank it as tight as you can, I put mine around 450ft-lbs.

I saw a pretty slick looking setup before, where someone had a machinist cut up 2 regular hex nuts. Tightened the first one, then the second one against that, then welded those two together. Doesn't compromise the shaft strength that way. Good luck.

dangina

thanks - mines a 2wd - would I have to still get the 4X4 one if it ends up being that case?