NV3500 Manual Trans

[gzig5]

Looking at a Dakota 4x4 with 5.2 and the NV3500 manual 5spd. I had a 98 with the 5.2 automatic and loved it, but it rusted out from under me. Son needs his first vehicle and looking the the Dakota because I'm familiar with them and respect the 318 motor. Don't know anything about the NV3500 though. Any comments appreciated. Can they handle a bit more HP than stock if we put a cam in or maybe stroker crank? Nothing crazy but up to 425-450-ish hp? Obviously anything can break if it is abused.

 

[mpgmike]

I converted our '95 Jeep Grand Cherokee to 5-speed and used the NV3500. 4th gear synchro must be split, but other than that it works OK for used. This is with a 4.0, so no comments on HP. Don't plan on speed shifting it; it's a truck tranny after all.