The transmission in question is a NV1500/2500 that was used behind the 3.9 and 5.2 liter engines. This is a five-speed The NV1500 was used on Dakotas and Ram 1500s, the NV2500 was used on the non-HD 2500 Rams. Fifth gear is an overdrive, unlike the Richmond 5-speed.
What I can like about the NV transmission is that it has internal shift rails. In my experience internal shift rails provide better feel than external shift linkages. If I were to use this transmission, I would probably want to shorten the lever. While it would tighten the throws, it would also increase the shift effort.
What I don't like is that the bell housing is integral with the transmission case. The gear ratios of both NV boxes are better suited to trucks rather than cars.
Here's a comparison
......NV1500.....NV2500.....TKO500.....Passon
1......4.01..........3.48........3.27..........2.64
2......2.32..........2.16........1.98..........1.92
3......1.40..........1.40........1.34..........1.40
4......1.00..........1.00........1.00..........1.00
5......0.73..........0.73........0.68..........0.70
As the comparison indicates, the NV box have an exceedingly low first gear aka Granny gear. This is especially true of the NV1500 (the one most are trying to sell). This is great if you're in a loaded truck pulling a heavy trailer. Not so good for driving in traffic. It requires an engine with good low end torque to make the jump from first to second.
Suggest you find someone with this transmission in a V8 Dakota and see if they will let you drive it for a few miles. I don't think it will take much more to see if you like the feel of the shifter and whether you can live with the gear spacing.
