Auto to Manual conversion

[Koerbs]

I am curious about the idea of swapping in a a 4500? into my 03 silverado. Besides the obvious mechanical parts, what needs to be done to the computer? Has anyone done this before???

I know it will be a job, but I don't think its a problem, my last project was a 5.7 S-10 ZR2. I want my truck to be different......

Maybe even a 6 speed? I see that some of the 3/4 ton truck have a 6 speed. (ZF S6-650) What about my transfer case?

[txarkitekt]

Tell us more about your truck's current driveline steup--and then we can tell you more...

[Koerbs]

Sorry it took so long to reply.

03 ext cab 5.3 auto buckets with the full console..... what else do you need to know???

[txarkitekt]

Why go with the NV4500? If you are going to do a manual swap, go ahead and get a T-56 from an F-body. But try and see if you can pick up a unit from a 98-02 model. Depending on your mods, you may want to upgrade some of the internals--like a LS7 clutch and flywheel ARP stud kit. You will need a new tranny crossmember, clutch pedal, and master cylinder. From what I know, the shifter location is pretty far back on a T-56--and you can buy a shifter relocation bracket that moves it like 5-6 inches forward so you can have the shifter up where your cupholders are. As far as the computer, get a custom tune. Everything is done inside the PCM through tuning software.