I have recently aqcuired a very clean '81 short bed half ton 2wd pickup, with the original 225 and 4spd manual. The truck is rust free, and the original black paint and tan vinyl interior are in GREAT shape. The problem is, I desperatly want more power. My Dad and I have discussed putting in a 426 Hemi in the near future, but retaining a 4 spd is a must. We still plan to maintain the daily driver status as well. We currently campaign a Front Engine Top Fuel Dragster across the Midwest, and will be making it to some of the races out in California this year as well. We plan to use this little pickup as the chase vehicle, which means it will be driven all over the country. I also want to put some new wheels on it, and lower it some, but will likely be putting a set of 'helper' air bags under the rear for when we have heavy loads in the back (ie:Barrels on Nitro, batteries for starting the race car, tools, etc.). Can any of you guys get me started on what I need to do to get some of this rolling? I am not new to autos, obviously, but i am new to Mopars. Thanks for the help, I look forward to this project, and whatever help I can get from you guys.
75 Power Wagon
12-12-2005, 05:49 PM
what about dropping a 340 or 440 in it? might be cheaper than a HEMI
CH3NO2
12-12-2005, 06:52 PM
I am not against that, either. We had discussed a Hemi, partially because we run a Hemi in our dragster, but I am not set on it. Part of what I am curious about is what all needs to change in order to swap a V8 in. Back about 5-6 years ago, we swapped a 440 into a '79 Powerwagon, along with putting 3/4 ton axles underneath it. Made a pretty cool stepside. I do remember that the big block required a different trans, but I couldn't remember about the mounts, etc. Too many projects ago. Anyway, yes, I would consider a hot smallblock, and I am not concerned about max performance. I would like something that sounds good, looks great, and can work hard. I am also hoping to be able to pull an open car trailer on weekends when we do not have the dragster out. Above all, driveability and dependability are must have qualities.
RAM MAN
12-12-2005, 11:24 PM
sweet
one more post and you can show us pics !
hemi_dakota94
12-12-2005, 11:44 PM
Sounds like a killer project! I plan on dropping a newer 5.7 HEMI in my Ram once I get started on the "muscletruck transormation". Its a cheaper HEMI to get (I can a wrecked vehicle up in a junkyard with all accessories, tranny, wiring, computer, etc. for a few thousand bucks.. Best part is that you could find a 300C, Magnum, Charger, Ram, or a Jeep with the engine... There's a ton of them out there.. Plus it's a more reliable technology with fuel injection, more accessories available, etc...
Keep us updated!
CH3NO2
12-13-2005, 01:15 AM
The new hemi isn't a bad idea. How would I go about mating a manual transmission up to one, though?
Dodgevanman
12-13-2005, 05:52 AM
If I'm not mistaken I think the new 5.7 Hemi uses the same LA engine bellhousing bolt pattern....I know the 90's Magnum engines do.
Speed Dragon
12-13-2005, 07:05 AM
If I'm not mistaken I think the new 5.7 Hemi uses the same LA engine bellhousing bolt pattern....I know the 90's Magnum engines do.
Nope, it uses the 4.7 bellhousing pattern.
I say build the Slant:cool: but that's just me. But, you can't beat them for reliability, and there are a decent amount of performance parts available for them. And it would definitely get better milige than a Hemi:D or even a hot small block. And as far as pulling, they can haul a good load too.
Just my .02 cents
hemi_dakota94
12-13-2005, 07:58 PM
If you're looking for a manual paired to a new HEMI, you could just look for a new 2WD 2500 or 3500 junker, which have a stick available. thats kinda what I'm hoping for on mine, but I'll take an auto if I find it I guess.
CH3NO2
12-13-2005, 08:52 PM
So, you can finally get a manual behind the new Hemis? Is that what you are saying?
Speed Dragon
12-14-2005, 06:17 AM
Maybe in the '06 trucks. I do know that they use the 4.7 bell pattern, so you can take a 5-spd out of a Dakota or Ram w/ a 4.7 and use it. Flywheel and clutch are the same as well.
hemi_dakota94
12-14-2005, 07:56 AM
So, you can finally get a manual behind the new Hemis? Is that what you are saying?
Not in the 1500's. They're still only offered with a 5speed automatic.. But the 2500 and 3500 HEMIs have always come standard with a 5 speed manual. I have a friend that has a 2500 HEMI w/ a manual trans. It's nothing short of alot of fun! :gr_patrio
CH3NO2
12-14-2005, 03:42 PM
Well, that's good info to know. I think I will look into that instead. Does anybody have any info on swapping one of the 5.7 Hemis into our trucks? Anything special I need to know aout oilpan clearance, exhaust (header) routing, wiring, etc? We currently do not have A/C on this truck, but may consider installing it. It's nice for the driver to be able to cool down after a run. 25 layer fire suits are a bitch in the summer.
Speed Dragon
12-14-2005, 05:50 PM
Year One swapped a 5.7 Hemi into a 70 Challenger, you may want to look it up for some sources of info
Interceptor
12-23-2005, 02:04 PM
Kiesler automotive makes a special bellhousing that will mate your four speed transmission up to the new hemi. The bell housing is much different than any other mopar.
