I recently inherited a 1979 K5. We went out to the desert this weekend to try it out. On a particularly steep, off camber section of road (?), I decided to switch from 4hi to 4lo (it has Warn hubs so I assume the conversion kit). When we continued, we slid to the side and dug in. That's when we discovered that lo range wasn't working. After some trail building (and putting it back into 4hi) we were able to make it up and out. My question is: what would cause lo range to not work? And if it will be a major fix, would it be better to rebuild or replace with an NP205? Thanks, Ken
CK5
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NP203 - no low range
- Thread starter Docfitch
- Start date
xsmokey11499x
1/2 ton status
Well It depends. "Better" Or Cost effective. I'm pretty sure It would be cheaper to Fix your 203 Rather than have to get a 205. and I think driveshaft(s) too, no ?
but 205 is "bullet proof"
but 205 is "bullet proof"
If there were no scary noises I'd assume it's the shifter or linkage. Since 4hi worked the chain should still be ok.
I bet the low range linkage is out of adjustment not allowing it to stay locked into low range.
With the 203, disconnect the linkage from t-case end and place shifter in N. There is a hole that will line up and go all the way through when in N just right. Sticka drill bit through this hole and then reconnect the linkages adjusting the ends as necessary. Take the transmission tunnel cover out of cab for easier access from top.
With the 203, disconnect the linkage from t-case end and place shifter in N. There is a hole that will line up and go all the way through when in N just right. Sticka drill bit through this hole and then reconnect the linkages adjusting the ends as necessary. Take the transmission tunnel cover out of cab for easier access from top.
That makes sense. When I shifted to lo and moved forward, it was like it wasn't in 4wd. In that case, I might get off easy with something less than a rebuild.
I'd say shifter, too.
Thanks. I'll check it out.
