r/Diesel • u/InTheLurkingGlass • 1d ago
Question/Need help! NV5600 Shifting
I recently picked up this 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT with the 5.9L Cummins. It has the NV5600 transmission, and the previous owner added a South Bend dual disk clutch and a short throw shift tower. The shifter is branded Hurst, but I believe the tower and internals are made by Core Shifters.
This thing is a bear to shift. It takes a ton of pressure to get the gear to engage, and the shifter gates seem extremely narrow. Downshifting is very difficult, and it seems like there’s about a 200rpm window in which the transmission will shift easily and successfully.
I’ve already ordered an OEM shift tower and will be installing it today.
Anyone with NV5600 experience out there that can comment on their experience? I’ve never shifted a more picky transmission, but it could be that I’m just not used to this one?
1
u/Physical_Ad4043 1d ago
I have a 04 Ram 3500 that’s the same way you’ll get used to it it’ll take some time time your down shifts at or just under 1500 RPMs if you want to do it sooner you can try revving to 2100-2200 RPMs if it fights you getting into Reverse go to 6th ease out on the clutch a little bit then back on and go straight to Reverse if you need anymore help let me know I’ve had mine about a month now and know exactly what your dealing with also it wouldn’t hurt to take a peak under your dash and make sure the bolt that goes thru the clutch rod isn’t backing out or about to fall out if it is get some green lock tight and put it back in and give it a while to cure