Posted by Charlie on February 11, 2000 at 22:57:01:
I called Advance Adapters and found out that a NV4500 can be put together with a HD Dodge input shaft (7.5") and a GM output shaft (shorter) for an overall length of 18". Boyce tells me a Spicer 3053A is 17" long. A driveshaft specialty place in one of the 4X4 magazines tells me a yoke can be splined out for a minimal amount of compression/extension for an overall length (center to center of u-joints) of about 5". With mini-driveshaft that short, 17-18" 5spds can be fit in. The NV4500 would require a special plate with a 4.75" protruding ring to index it in the bellhousing, 4 countersunk holes for 1/2" allen head fasteners, tapped holes for the transmission (which is a bit wider than the bellhousing), a slightly extended pilot bushing, a clutch disk with 1-1/4" 10 spline hub, and a different throwout bearing. The Spicer - I don't know yet. Trying to get my hands on one. They are much cheaper than the 4500s - good running takeouts for $400-450.
Charlie