Ok so I've been doing some thinking. Within the next year I *should* have some money to throw at the tractor (i mean the truck for those who are confused ). Lately I've been thinking about swapping out the getrag 360 for a built up auto (torque converter, valve body, shift kit and maybe some stronger shafts). I don't tow much, just haul 2000 pounds worth of snowmobiles and gear during the winter on the weekends. So here are my questions:

1) Which auto tranny would be a good base to build from? I'm thinking a 47RH would be a good start. Its my understanding that this tranny when built up, is fairly stout

2) I know I need a different NP205 transfer case. I want to say its the tcase with the 29 splined shaft. Which trucks did these TC's come with besides 1st gen CTDs?

3) Finding the steering column/shifter assembly, could I use any assembly from mid 80s-93' dodge truck with an auto?

4) The TPS, I'm guessing go to the dealer to pick that up?

5) What size of tranny cooler would be adequate? I'd like something that I wouldn't have to worry about the temps getting too hot even though I will be installing a temp gauge.

 

1. Definitely. No sense in going to all that trouble and not getting a lockup TC.

2. Isn't there some sort of adapter sleeve available?

3. Sure thing, Ramchargers would work too.

4. Or any auto parts store. I'm not sure what you'll have to do to make it work factory, I'm kinda doubtful that you can just wire it to the PCM and have it work, but I could be wrong. Controlling the OD and lockup is going to be the challenging part here.

5. You won't have near the trouble keeping the 47RH cool as the 46RH. The lockup converter prevents a lot of heat. As big a cooler as you can fit behind the grill would be a good start, though.

 

4. I think when most guys go to a 47RH, they just install switches for OD and lockup. Making the TPS work might be a nightmare (but then I hate electrical problems). If you decide you need a TPS, give me a PM; I have a couple sitting here.

With a good lockup converter, I don't think you'll have to worry about trans temps. A good torque converter and valve body are the biggest things, but having it rebuilt by DTT or someone like that with some better parts wouldn't be a bad idea.

 

3. Why not use a floor shifter?

 

3) To fit properly and look right, you need a 91-93 steering column.

ALso, hang onto the Getrag. Some members here will pay you for it to have for parts or an extra. Swampthang USED to have a NP205 adaptor for a auto. Not sure if he still has it.

Daniel

 

Thanks for the tips guys, I'm really looking forward to the day that I can spool the turbo once and put the hurting on some silly rice rocket .

 

I can do that now, smoky injectors, loose Getrag and all.

DP

 

Sound like someone just needs to learn to shift better. Really a race is more fun wondering if your going to miss a shift.

 

I was having fun walking off from my buddies 3rd gen with a Juice/attitude, and the 6th level unlocked from a stop because he was a 6 spd. he can pull me hard from a kick, but from a stop the old 94 is pretty tough

Eric

 

Oh I have no doubt an auto can be faster and it does take finesse to work these big manuals. But my 91' could stay ahead of my buddies 01' auto w/ edge j/a from a stop.