my turn. i think the cummins option really isn't too bad. the first ones offered in the dodges were basically mechanical, with a computer used mostly as a rev limiter. good option for an old c.o.e.. IF. you remember the cummins weighs a bloody ton, and the swap will require heavier springs--which will reduce body roll, and some of the handling problems. still, the words of caution about brakes are indeed wise. as far as the diff goes, if you have the 10 bolt rims, the rims from a 3500 chevy dually will bolt on. the tire size is 19.5, but the tires are slightly smaller than 10.00x20's. as far as speeds go, if you just go with a cummins, and not change to trans to overdrive, you will lose top end. big truck 6 cyls. usually runs out of poop (rpm's) at about 1,950. there is alittle more rpms in a gas engine, but not near the torque and power. how about the possibility of something simple and maybe easy? does anyone know if the late model 5 speed manual trans. from a 1 ton g.m. will bolt up to the bellhousing on a bolt? i know those trannies are designed to bolt to a crossmember, but ought to hold up just fine with the direct bolt, and there's a question about tranny length and u-joint compatibility. if that swap could work, then ya got an honest 62 mph or so truck, without rippin' much apart. as far as the diff swap goes, well, there ain't much to it, as long as the spring perches are the same width.
hey there poobah, we ought to get together by private message or e-mail and work out the options here and update the tech section---don'tcha think?
