hey guys i got a 78 powerwagon. its got a 400 big block, mild cam, not sure of lift. but it fits 38's now but im wanting to put 44's on it. what size lift and where or how did you make the lift? let me know
beatersdigest
12-16-2008, 03:43 PM
Sounds like a fun project. One place to look is 4wheelparts.com. They have a ton of stuff in stock. If they don't carry something they usually know where to send you.
If you want high-end leaf springs check with Deaver. They are probably the best aftermarket springs money can buy. If you go that route, plan to fork over some serious coin.
I have heard of some guys using 12" lift springs from Chevy kits with modified shackles. That way you wouldn't have to gain as much height from blocks. As far as I know there isn't a lift kit out there for a power wagon (or any pre-94 dodge) that will allow for 44" tires.
78BblockPwagon
12-16-2008, 03:51 PM
I Have Seen Some Guy On A Website That Got 8 Inches Of Lift Out Ogf Shackles But That Sounds Crazy To Me. Do You Think I Could Get It With 8 Inch Springs?
beatersdigest
12-16-2008, 03:55 PM
I think you might be able to cram in 44's with 8" springs with the right amount of trimming and the right wheels. To be safe, go for more than 8" if possible.
8" shackles? If you want major axle wrap, that would do it.
russellkuhoops@
12-16-2008, 11:31 PM
Have 44s on a 78 power wagon. And was done by 8in of spring and 4in of body left. Did have to trim the fenders a little but no rubbing. we had the springs re-arched.The steering does have to be rebuilt new pitman. and steering shaft. but looks like a beast and drives good for 44s.
beatersdigest
12-16-2008, 11:37 PM
Russell-
Where did you get the 8" springs? Did they come in a kit?
78BblockPwagon
12-17-2008, 12:18 AM
so do you think its worth all the work?
Oldblue1978
12-17-2008, 12:37 AM
I got a really sweet original Viper Blue 78 BB Power Wagon myself. it is mostly stock, except for my custom massaging I did to the engine. It is the W150 but it has the 3/4 ton 8 lug axles with 4.10 & 4.11 gears. I get alot of attention at car shows, but these days it just sits and collects dust. My avatar is the pic of the 400 in my Power Wagon. Also is equipped with the factory 4 Barrel ThermoQuad, unusual since I was told that all 400's in trucks left the factory with 2 barrels.:tup:
russellkuhoops@
12-17-2008, 07:46 AM
we removed the springs and had them re-arched at a local spring store here in the city,Olathe spring. and is it worth it ?you bet we do alot of mudding on the weekends in the summer and makes it fun in the snow with some weight of course. But it like every thing when you lift it and go out in the mud if you do i have a saying if you are going to play your going to pay.
78BblockPwagon
12-17-2008, 11:56 AM
true but this is really my first project i just really need a parts list if any of you guys could make one. i have found some 8 inch springs on ntwonline but i dunno the truck has a 2 inch body lift now with some trimming
beatersdigest
12-17-2008, 02:36 PM
You might consider hydraulic steering if you plan to run the 44's. Also see if the springs come in a kit which includes other components, such as bolts, brackets, longer shocks and brake lines.
NTW online should be able to provide the info.
russellkuhoops@
12-17-2008, 05:07 PM
I will get you some part # I know for sure you will need skyjackers 4in drop pitman. I used Borgeson steering shaft the best thing ever made for these trucks with rag joints. The brake lines will have to be played with and the shock mounts, we have 4 on back and just the 2 on front. steering stablizer helps. will send some pictures of mine give you a idea. Its not hard to do if you have truned a few wrenches before if not would have someone to help you that knows a little about lift kits. Hyd steering is great but with us in the mud every weekend what we have done works fine for the mud or street driveing
78BblockPwagon
12-17-2008, 06:47 PM
ok cool ya i been around cars and trucks all my life so it hould not be too bad but ya could i get some pics with some 44s and some pics of the lift and stuff thanks
360 WarLock
12-17-2008, 09:28 PM
If your from Mo. then your in the right place to get the real deal done and done right, Mr. Bob(Bigfoot) Chandler, he is from Mo. and he has helped lots of folk's get it up in the air. Worked with a guy across the river from me in Ky. that was from out that way, showed me pic's of his 89, running I beleave 44's, got the part's and even some of the work from him. said the cost was better than he expected, and the help and advice was priceless. great people to talk to and get advice from. Dont only work on the wanna be truck's, do DODGE's also
78BblockPwagon
12-17-2008, 10:27 PM
do any of you guys have an idea you can give me on build cost? and could i get some pics of 44's on a 78 powerwagon and some pictures of the lift
beastin87
12-18-2008, 11:01 AM
Not trying to derail the thread but would love to see some pics of a PW on 44's
78BblockPwagon
12-18-2008, 12:29 PM
any body?
4ruddymicha
12-18-2008, 12:35 PM
Not trying to derail the thread but would love to see some pics of a PW on 44's
I was thinking the same thing
russellkuhoops@
12-18-2008, 04:05 PM
Pic will come soon belive it or not we are doing a frame off febuild, but to date have over 30 pic will load as soon as we can. yes its on 44s and loveing it. Not a bad driver for the tire size but as we say here in kansas "If you got the nuts follow my ruts".Will post pic as soon as I can.
78BblockPwagon
12-18-2008, 10:34 PM
cant wait!
DiverDwnPowrRam
12-18-2008, 11:38 PM
while you are waiting look at this one
http://www.mopartruckparts.com/gallery/g049.html