My apologies to the group. I didnt read the part about labeling the threads with specific information before I posted. Mia Culpa! But I do have just a couple of questions, one technical on transmissions, the other on a noise issue with my power train.
1. I have an 88 std 1/2 ton with the gas carb 22R, RN50 body style. It has a 4 spd trans, which I think is a G series. But Im not sure where to find that info. And I seriously want to swap it out for a 5 spd to boost my mileage and reduce wear on the engine. The truck is used mainly as a commuter and light-hauler. Any advice on compatible transmissions?
2. When accelerating from a stop, I hear a single ping coming from the rear of the truck. I've visually inspected the u-joints, and checked for any excessive play in the shaft and differential. I've put the truck on jacks to try and pinpoint the noise, but I cant repdroduce it unless there's a load on the drivetrain.

Thanks in advance for any help!

JC

 

you can call the junk yard and find a 5 speed form another 4x4 4cly you might have to cut a bigger hole in the floor board. i did a 5speed swap in a 85 2wd but your going to have an extra T-case go to marlin or trail gear and do dual T-cases.

2. and for the ping i have no idea. it might be your spare tire chain or empty beer cans in the back. what i would do is just start wiggling things see if it fixs your issue

 

/me not being a transmission person, can't help you there, but if you look for a 5sp for a 2wd truck (you are 2wd, right?) you should find what you need.

as for 'pings' in the back, the first place I'd be looking at is the u-joints. If replacing those (they're not that expensive) doesn't fix the problem then maybe the rear axle is 'wrapping' up a little bit causing the overload leaf to tap on the other springs...?
Could also be dry spring hangers / bushings too.
I suppose it could be possible that one of the rear brakes are hanging or the springs within are hanging... so maybe that's somewhere else to look.