What trucks have NV5600 transmission?
The NV5600 is a heavy‑duty manual transmission best known for powering Dodge Ram heavy‑duty pickups, especially those equipped with Cummins diesel engines. In production, the NV5600 was paired with Ram 2500/3500 models and certain Ram chassis‑cab configurations.
Below is a concise guide to the main production applications known to have used the NV5600, along with notes on identification and typical usage. This transmission is most closely associated with Ram heavy‑duty trucks from the late 1990s through the 2000s, rather than with the lighter Ram 1500 or most non‑Ram pickups.
What is the NV5600?
The NV5600 is a heavy‑duty manual transmission designed by New Venture Gear for Chrysler’s Dodge Ram platform. It is a six‑speed manual gearbox built to handle the higher torque demands of diesel engines used in Ram’s heavy‑duty lineup, and it was used in a variety of Ram 2500/3500 configurations as well as related chassis‑cab variants.
Which trucks have the NV5600 transmission?
The following list highlights the main production applications known to use the NV5600, drawing from manufacturer data and service literature. It is not intended to be an exhaustive catalog of every special edition or regional variant.
- Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy‑duty pickups, typically paired with Cummins diesel engines (5.9L 24‑valve and later 6.7L) where a manual 6‑speed NV5600 was offered.
- Dodge Ram 3500/4500/5500 chassis‑cab and heavy‑duty configurations that utilized the same 6‑speed manual option for demanding service.
Note: The NV5600 was not widely deployed outside the Ram lineup, and in many Ram trims, the NV4500 or other transmissions were used instead, depending on engine choice and market. Always verify by checking the transmission casting, build sheet, or owner’s manual for the exact model year and configuration.
How to identify the NV5600 in your truck
To confirm a vehicle’s transmission, look for the NV5600’s identifying features and markings. Check the transmission casing for model codes, consult the vehicle’s original build sheet or VIN-derived specification, and, if needed, compare casting numbers on the bell housing and main case to official parts catalogs.
Notes for buyers and restorers
When shopping used Ram heavy‑duty trucks, be mindful that not all 2500/3500/4500/5500 models use the NV5600—many early diesel configurations and all gasoline trims used different manuals or automatics. If the NV5600 is a compatibility or maintenance concern, verify the exact transmission model before purchase and plan for parts availability and labor needs accordingly.
In summary, the NV5600 is most closely associated with Dodge Ram heavy‑duty trucks—primarily the Ram 2500 and 3500—and with Ram chassis‑cab variants that required a durable manual gearbox capable of handling diesel torque. That association makes it a common reference point for enthusiasts and technicians working with mid‑2000s Ram heavy‑duty platforms.
Summary: The NV5600 is a six‑speed manual transmission most commonly found in Ram heavy‑duty pickups and chassis‑cab configurations with Cummins diesels, serving as the production standard in those heavy‑duty applications during its era. Verification with the build sheet or VIN is advised when assessing a specific vehicle.
Is the NV5600 a good transmission?
Yes, the NV5600 is generally considered a good and robust transmission, especially for heavy-duty use like with high-torque Cummins diesel engines in Dodge trucks. It is praised for its strength and durability, though some specific issues can arise, most notably with the sixth gear, which is susceptible to failure, particularly in high-mileage or heavily worked applications.
Advantages
- Durability: The NV5600 is a heavy-duty 6-speed manual transmission built to handle high torque, making it popular for diesel trucks. Its cast-iron case is a significant advantage in strength.
- Torque capacity: It can handle high levels of torque, and many owners consider it stronger than other alternatives like the later G56 or NV4500, especially when equipped with a good clutch.
- Reliability: When properly maintained, it is a very reliable transmission that can last a long time, with many owners reporting it as being very difficult to break.
Disadvantages
- Sixth gear weakness: The sixth gear is a known weak point due to the size difference between the gear and its drive gear. This can lead to broken teeth and gear failure, especially with high mileage or hard use.
- Performance limitations: Some issues can arise with difficult shifting or gear grinding.
- Weight: It is a very heavy transmission.
Important considerations
- Sixth gear issues: To prolong its life, it's recommended to use good quality fluid, keep the transmission cool, and avoid shock loading it.
- Upgrades: Upgrading the clutch is often recommended, especially with performance applications. Some aftermarket options are available to address the sixth gear issue and other known flaws.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance and proper fluid can help extend the life of the transmission.
- Alternative: For some applications, the NV5600 is considered superior to the G56, especially for those not putting extreme stress on the transmission. However, the G56 is often seen as a good, more modern option that is lighter and less expensive to acquire.
What year did Cummins have NV5600?
ATS Nv5600 2Wd Performance Manual Transmission Fits 2000-Early 2005 5.9L Cummins - ATS Diesel.
Is the G56 or NV5600 better?
The NV5600 is a heavier-duty, cast-iron transmission, while the G56 uses a lighter aluminum case and was introduced as an upgrade for medium-duty trucks. For heavy-duty applications, the NV5600 is generally preferred due to its superior strength, although the G56 can be a good choice for those who need a more modern transmission, particularly if upgraded with a robust clutch. Key differences include the NV5600 having a more stout construction, while the G56 features a different shift pattern with reverse in the bottom left corner.
You can watch this video to learn how to identify which transmission is in your truck by looking at the shift pattern: 1mDecent GarageYouTube · Dec 19, 2021
NV5600 vs. G56
| Feature | NV5600 | G56 |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Heavy-duty cast iron | Lighter aluminum case |
| Torque Capacity | Higher capacity, considered stouter for extreme use | Introduced with higher input torque capacity than predecessors, but some versions have reliability issues |
| Shift Pattern | Reverse in the top right corner | Reverse in the bottom left corner |
| Performance | Very robust, though early versions had gear ratio issues | Can be a solid choice for aggressive driving and towing, but may require upgrades for extreme use |
| Reliability | Generally considered very reliable | Early models had issues, especially with the dual-mass flywheel and clutch |
| Best for | Heavy-duty applications where maximum strength is needed | Modern applications, particularly with appropriate upgrades |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_0-Mlade4BYXXi-gP1NzVoQ4_124';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
What truck came with a NV5600 transmission?
The NV5600 is a heavy duty, close ratio, 6-speed manual transmission that was used in 1999-2005 Dodge RAM 2500 and 3500 series ¾ ton and 1 ton trucks with 5.9 L Cummins Engines. It was manufactured by New Venture Gear, a division of Magna Powertrain.
