Some questions on a 78 Power Wagon.

[cylar]

I just got a 78 ¾ ton Power wagon for about $500 as a project truck. I am planning on setting this thing up to use as a every day driver that I will get into some mud puddles over the week ends. Right now the thing has a half dead 318 that I am going to replace with a rebuilt 360. The transmission should be a 435 or a 445 4-speed in front of a 203 transfer case with 4.10 gears in the axles. This is my first truck project so I had a few questions. The truck currently has a Dana 44 front and a Dana 60 rear. Would I get any real benefit from changing the Dana 44 out for a Dana 60 and if I do decide to change it out is there any thing I should know before hand so I don’t do something stupid like nuke <IMG SRC="smilies/nuke.gif" border="0"> my transfer case?

Edit:

I also heard that I would burn out my transfer case if I put a posi in the rear axle and with the stock dodge wheel bearings that I cannot run off set tires. Is all this true or does any body have something thing to add to this info?

[ 09-26-2001: Message edited by: cylar ]

[hy_desert_4wheeler]

The tranny is most likely the 435. one thing to remember when going from a 318 to a 360 the engine mounts are slightly different and the flywheels are different. Your best bet is to find a used one with bellhousing and pressure plate. If you have to get a new one you are looking at $300.00+ at least that is what the dealer I went to three years ago wanted. <IMG SRC="smilies/usa.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/usa.gif" border="0">

[cylar]

Yeah for the engine I was taking the easy approach I am going to use a rebuilt short block from Checker, which runs $700. I already have a rebuilt set of X heads from a 340. <IMG SRC="smilies/cool.gif" border="0">

[ 09-26-2001: Message edited by: cylar ]

[txs]

I've got a 77 3/4 that came with suregrip in the rear from factory, isn't uncommon on the 4xs at all, don't believe that one.
you might check your driveshaft clearance after swap, the 60 is a little longer than a 44 I believe, and might need a little shorter driveshaft.

[spitz pdc]

the 360 is externally balanced ...your 318 flywheel and balancer will work but it needs to be balanced with your rotating mass....have them do this for you when they build your short block...it'll cost a little more but you'll be glad you did.

[spitz pdc]

also the d44 really is strong enough...spend your time and money on better mods <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

[GRMhick]

when you blow up the d44, put in a 60. And no, you cannot run off set tire sizes with a stock 203 because it has clutches, and you;ll burn it up real quick. But if you get a mile marker kit for it you can. have fun with that truck.. and post some pics.

[hy_desert_4wheeler]

The 203 DOES NOT HAVE CLUTCHES. it has a differential that works similar to the axle diff but with the ability to be locked. A limited slip or locker either one can be run but will have an effect on turning.

[cylar]

Well I just got a digital camera so I thought I should post a picture. It’s a bit ugly at the moment but I like it. This thing was in a field full of waist high wild grass. The guy I got it from took us out to look at in an old 50’s military Jeep. <IMG SRC="smilies/eyemouth.gif" border="0">

<IMG SRC="smilies/bounce.gif" border="0"> Its a rather large picture so click the link if you want to see it. <IMG SRC="smilies/bounce2.gif" border="0">

Picture (http://www.starwanderer.org/stuff/78pw.jpg)

Edit:
Sorry I should say its a HUGE picture. Any one know how to make it smaller?

[ 10-08-2001: Message edited by: cylar ]