new project thoughts and advice

[Gator673]

I'm new here but throwing this out for thoughts, ideas and advice. I have a 91 Ford F450, recently came into a Detroit 3 71...my mind is turn over the possibilities, but not sure...anyone out there ever do this?

[Gator673]

2771Maybe a little more info might get me some help. The truck is a 91 F450 chassis cab with 10 foot flatbed. Came from the factory with a 7.3 IDI and a 5 speed manual. Took the tranny out to rebuild it and some one stole it from outside the shop (gotta love south Florida) The engine is tired. Came across a 3 cylinder Detroit, great shape, runs good, that is mine for the taking. Just curious what would be the best trans/driveline set up. the rearend in the truck now is a Dana 80 with 5.13 ratio. I work as a operating engineer, so this truck wouldn't need to be a hiway flyer, but a good dependable puller.

[a5150nut]

Well as one OE to another, Welcome to TDP.

Back in the 70's there were a couple guys in California putting 4/53 Detroit's in pickups and they worked very well. I don't think you will get enough out of a 3 banger. But that is just my opinion.

I know there were quite a few GM mechanics trucks running the 6/53's. Your chaise should hold the weight of 4 or 6 cylinder Detroit. You'll just need to add enough gears to get the top end speeds.