My Dodge is at a crossroads...

[MChalkley]

Ahh, there's nothing like educating a still wet-behind-the-ears kid in a "tuner" - I think that's what they call the hopped up imports these days - that it's not smart to assume that big always means slow. Even with 3.07's, I can leave tracks in three gears. Well, at least I could before I broke it. I'm not sure how I did that... /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif Of course, if I can just get the jump on them, they have to let me win, because they can't see where they're going. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

And while we're on the subject, it's almost as much fun to do that in my Passat diesel. I can usually take 3 out of 4 of them any way they start it. And I never pick on them - I just wait until they mess with me, then eat their lunch. It's a real education for them, I can tell you that. They don't think about the fact that, either way, they lose. If I win, they've suffered pretty much the absolute humiliation, getting their doors sucked off by a diesel. If I lose, what are they going to do, go brag to their friends that they barely managed to beat a diesel? /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[RobertN]

Ok... So let me ask this /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif What are the "bolt-up" differences between a 12V and 24V. Is it possible that, if you do not find a late 12V truck, that you might find an early 24V truck, and swap to older engine? Maybe even use the already worked over engine from your existing truck?

I would assume the hard mount stuff, ei tranny bolt pattern, motor mounts, ect, would be the same?
I was thinking, it may be possible to pick up a wrecked truck, swap engines, fresh sheet-metal, and have an affordable truck. Could always do it to a truck in good condidtion too, just may be more expensive.

In regards to your existing truck, you run 3.07's. If you had an auto, how important would OD be? A built 727 would be a great tranny if you didn't need the OD. Or, put a Gear Vendor in front of it(not sure how they hold up to big power).

Just because everyone has carried on about your coffee cup for four or five years now, I don't think you're a nut /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

however, if you started trying to find a way to stuff a 8.9L 350hp 1600ft/lb Cummins in you pickup, I'd worry(and be really impressed). I did get to drive the new Fire Engine in our area before I had to leave that part of my life. That 8.9L ran really good... /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[bgott]

It might not be as hard to find as you think. In '98 you couldn't get an automatic behind the 24 valve, at least at rollout, they would only sell one behind a 12 valve.

 

[_RaT_]

My Ford is at a crossroads as well Mark. I would like to eventually replace it with a newer used truck. Mine is a 93 so that means IDI, non turbo etc. I don't need the power you are looking for, but would like some high altitude performance. I also lean towards the Cummins if for no other reason, I like the simplicity of it's design and superb track record. I'll have to keep my eyes open for various used Dodge trucks. This post at least gives me some clue about what is or was being manufactured over at Dodge. Sir King Rat.