Need a sounding board of experts...

[cummins82]

I have a 1989 Dodge 2wd 250, 5. 9L w/ TorqueFlite 727 auto transmission, reg. cab long box. I also have a 1963 Dodge, 225 slant six, 4-speed standard transmission, reg. cab, 12' flat bed.



Originally, I was thinking I would just fix up both trucks, as-is, and be happy. However, here lately I've been thinking that a Cummins-powered '63 would be pretty cool, especially with some big fuel tanks, a little body work, and exhaust stacks. It was also brought to my attention *by my mechanic, curse him* that a '89 diesel hot rod truck would be fun to play with, maybe even chop the frame and make it a short box.



I'm willing to go either way, and since it's a long-term project regardless, I'm in no big hurry. I'm just curious what the Cummins-owning public would do in my position. Both trucks have been freebies, and both have small issues to address before they could be driven daily (i. e. , the 1989 needs a rear main, and already has the 12-valve out and in my shop). I'm a little put off by the idea of cutting the frame, mainly because these trucks are getting popular and I don't want to go making permanent changes that might not be approved of.



Just curious, like I said, and looking for a little :-{} insight from other fan*atics* of these rides...

 

[JCrockett]

I think if it were me, I would but the CTD in the 63. The 63 would be harder to come by than a 1st gen. Later if you want a hot rod 1st gen you could always find one more than likely. Just my . 02

 

[KevinSmith]

YouTube - 1963 Dodge Drag Truck - Sweptline



That would be a great conversion. Wide open frame rails, simple straight forward engine, not a lot of upolstry or fufu, just plain fun truck.

 

[GDMRTN]

The '63 with a cummins would be my choice. Just like you are thinkin, fuel and pipes!!
It'll take a while to do but you'll probly love it.

 

[DVolk]

Need sounding board of experts

I like the 63 if you got a good sound cab with good door latches as all the ones i had sucked but i think the 71s will fit if not use a 71 cab

One thing i recomend is use the 89 powersteering if your crafty enough to make it fit



I got cab and door parts for a 63 and a 71 cheap!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[cummins82]

Well, my '63 cab is pretty sound, doors and latches are questionable, but I just happen to know where a nice donor truck is hiding out in my mechanic's junkyard.

It seems you guys are leaning opposite of what I expected! I honestly thought for a little while that I would get flamed outta this thread for even suggesting taking a complete first gen and parting it out to make a different truck better!

Thanks for the suggestions, and I'm more than open to hear more! Thanks again!

 

[NYCEGUY01]

Anyone can just buy and then drive a 1st gen.



NOT everyone can drive a classic with a Cummins. IMO