Originally posted by Gecko:
I'm pretty sure I am going to attempt this, but I just want to know if it’s going to be a weekend job or if it’s going to be a year of weekends job, and if so why?
Somewhere between the two....
I say that because I don't believe there is anyway you'll get an exhaust manifold or header to fit without moving the steering.
There is a power steering kit based on using a 70's pickup power steering box. If you can first convert to power steering using a kit like that, and arrange the shaft from the steering column to the box out of the way, then I'd believe you MIGHT pull the rest of it off in a weekend. But I'd bet against you.
Length shouldn't be a problem if you are replacing the manual transmission with an automatic. I say that because it allows you to position the motor farther forward to avoid changing the firewall. If you stay with a manual transmission using the stock bellhousing location (to simplify clutch linkage) you may need to modify the firewall to fit heads and distributor, though I don't actually know that.
I've seen a big block in an AD truck so I know it can be done. One I've seen is a straight axle with a power steering conversion. The other used a Monte Carlo clip so the steering and mounting issues are completely different.
I just looked back at your initial question. The 3/4-ton uses a partial driveshaft. Unless you want ot use the original transmission you'll need a new driveshaft. Without re-reading the entire thread I don't recall if you've said what you want for a transmission.
