Out on the floor, what should be done?

[Hutchew]

I have a '98 12v motor and NV4500 trans about to be stuffed into a '85 Crewcab. The motor and trans are bone stock, and while I have them out and they are easy to work on, what all should I do before the install? The KDP fix is already on the list of to-do's. I plan on (eventually) running @ 350 HP with this motor. Any suggestions for the clutch and transmission? Is 5th gear weak, and is there a fix? Thanks (in advance) for any insights, suggestions, comments.

 

[Joe G.]

Have you considered beefing up the frame? These engines weigh about 1000 lbs and put out torque the old Dodge chassis was never designed for.

 

[pcorssmit]

Standard trans has the ultimate fix for the 5th gear problem, try their website. I thought about doing this when my clutch was out, but I cheaped out.



The stock clutch will not hold at that HP. I'm happy with my Joe Donelly Specail Sachs (brass pucks). Others here are running the South Bend units and others. Don't buy a Centerforce, many members have smoked them.



Pete

 

[Hutchew]

Come on guys!!!!

Thanks, Pete and Joe. I appreciate those tidbits. But really now, with over a hundred views on my original question, is that the best the rest of you guys can do? Come on, gimme some more!!!! Surely there's stuff to do that would be easier now than later. Even if you think it's something minor, I would appreciate your feedback. Makes me wonder if ya'll don't like me cuz I'm buildin' an old truck that'll outrun yours... ... ... ... ...

 

[radixr]

Replace the rubber fuel return/supply lines. Check the fuel heater/prefilter. Install a #11 torque plate and AFC spring kit.

 

[bigkid59]

You didn't mention the number of miles on your engine. If it were me and I had an engine with more than 100,000 miles on it I would pull the pan and clean it and the oil pickup and check the bearings. OK,guys, I know our engines are good for many, many miles, but as a matter of preventative maintenance and for peace of mind, I would do these things while the engine is where you can work on it. Since bearings are usually the first parts to show wear, many fleets with over the road trucks have a policy of installing a set of bearings at around 200,000 to 250,000 miles and then go on to past a half a million miles. A few bucks spent now could be well worth it in the long run.



Sounds like you have a project ahead that can be a lot of fun. I can remember years past when I really enjoyed getting involved in projects that kept me busy out in the garage until past midnight many times. Good luck and have fun!



By the way, while the oil pan is off is a good time to weld in a fitting for a return line if you ever go with a bypass filter. It is also a good time to weld in a fitting to install an oil temperature gauge if you want.

 

[Turbo Thom]

Two things I would check or possibly replace is the power steering pump. They seem to leak fairly easy. And the second is the timing gear cover seal. If you get a leak there the time from Dodge to replace is 18 hours. As you probably know the entire front end has to come off. Very expensive.

My . 02 cents.

Preston