Replace BW T5 trans with a NV1500 in 94 S-15 Sonoma

For those interested. I went ahead and did this conversion. The VSS in the 96 (NV1500) is compatible with the 94 computer. Also the tranny makes the same number of pulses/rev (speedometer worked right). Length of driveshaft is the same, splines are the same. It even uses the same clutch disk and pressure plate. The throw-out bearing is different. The NV1500 uses a center push type hydraulic actuator, while the T5 had a external slave cylinder. I had a little trouble getting my old line hooked up to the new actuator, but did get it to work. I had to use the crossmember from the 96. The hole for the mount was a couple of inches further back. Also the hole for the shifter had to be lengthened by about 5 inches. I really hated to do that but decided it was the cheapest thing to do in my situation. All the local yards in my area were wanting like $450 for a used T5. I got the NV1500 for $200 from a guy that buys wrecked S-10 trucks, fixes them and resells them. Anyway just thought I would share this bit of info.

Ken D.

Ken Dupree II wrote:

I'm currently trying to do this swap and was wondering what you had to do in order to make the center actuator function properly