Early Bronco NV4500 5-Speed Manual Transmission

1966-77 Ford Bronco NV4500 Transmission Swap Guide

If you’re after serious crawl capability without sacrificing highway drivability, the NV4500 5-speed manual transmission delivers both. With a 5.61:1 granny low first gear and a .73 overdrive, this setup gives you the control needed for rock crawling while still allowing comfortable freeway speeds without excessive RPM.

Why Choose the NV4500?

The NV4500 is a heavy-duty transmission built for high torque and demanding use. It’s a popular choice for Early Bronco owners who want strength, versatility, and long-term durability in one package.

• Excellent crawl ratio for technical off-road driving

• Overdrive gear for reduced engine RPM on the highway

• Strong enough for high-horsepower and heavy-duty applications

For best results, look for an NV4500 from a Dodge 4x4 gas truck (not diesel) and make sure it includes the tail housing.

Key Specs

• First gear: 5.61

• Fifth gear (overdrive): 0.73

• Weight: ~195 lbs

• Oil capacity: 9.5 pints

• Torque rating: ~450 ft-lbs

• Max GVW: up to 14,500 lbs (19,000 lbs gross capacity)

Installation Considerations

Swapping an NV4500 into a 1966-77 Ford Bronco requires some modifications:

• Overall assembly is about 2 inches longer than stock setups

• Driveshaft modifications will be required

• Transmission tunnel must be cut for clearance

• A custom sheet metal cover will need to be fabricated

Transfer Case Compatibility

For Dana 20 setups:

• A T-shift bracket allows use of the stock or aftermarket shifter and linkage

• Minor modifications may be needed for twin-stick setups

Parts & Adapters

Wild Horses offers NV4500 conversion components and adapters to support do-it-yourself installs. Many of these parts are designed to work together, so be sure to confirm compatibility with your specific build.

With its combination of ultra-low gearing and highway-friendly overdrive, the Early Bronco NV4500 conversion is a strong option for drivers who want maximum versatility on and off the trail.

NV 4500 Transmission Installation Instructions