Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Rear axle swap

[myoldodge]

Iv got a 1998 12 valve with rear drum breaks. My question is, can I swap with a newer model for disk brakes? If so what year models will work?



Thanks

Myoldodge

 

[HBarlow]

You could install a Dana salvaged from a 2001. 5 or 2002 Ram. Those trucks had four wheel disc brakes as built.

Beginning with model year 2003 Ram trucks were equipped with AAM axles. The Gen III body was different and I believe the frames and springs were also. I don't know if a Gen III rear end would bolt in. I believe a 2001. 5 or 2002 would.

 

[myoldodge]

Thanks a million for the info on axle swaps, got one found and gonna try!!!!!

Thanks
Myoldodge

 

[HBarlow]

If you have access to a complete donor truck, compare the two master cylinders and related hardware before you leave with the axle. Changing from front discs/rear drums to four wheel discs may have included additional parts changes as well.

 

[myoldodge]

Will do!!!!!

Thanks
Myoldodge

 

[SLangone]

Can you let me know how this swap worked out?

 

[JKosten]

Same here as I am in the process on getting one...

But on the 3rd gen question: The perches are 3" wider on each side on the 3rd gem AAM axles. Also the fittings are metric I believe. I am currently cutting the perches and shock mounts off of one to fit it under a 2gen. But we are also going to 4 link to get over 16" of travel.

 

[WilsonF]

I have though about doing this but decided not to. 70-80% of your braking is done with the front brakes and you already have discs up there, the rear drums are notorious for not self-adjusting so I keep them adjusted by hand, I also did the GM wheel cylinder upgrade. So now I am happy with the way it brakes and have saved bundle of money to do other things. I just completed a junk yard manual lock-out free spin mod with some of what the newer rear end would have cost.

Floyd
__________________
96 4X4 Auto, Gauges, Full time power windows, headlight relays, By-pass filter, KDP Done, Lukes Link, GM Wheel cylinders, removed fuel heater, Banks triple disc TC, Transgo Diesel shift kit, Homemade freespin manual lockout hubs w/old school bearings.
I need no stinking chips.
For those who fought for it Freedom has a taste the protected will never know.

 

[JKosten]

Okay, can you list what it took to do the free spin kit as this is the first I have heard of it.

I am getting the axle out of 01 mostly for the Posi, and with the bonus of disk brakes.

 

[WilsonF]

I took information from these sites plus others. Two ways of doing it, both take parts off ford dana 50-60s, if you can find a 60 @ a good price you can do the knuckle out. I did the Dana 50 spindle hub and lockout route, the 60s are too expensive around here.
If you need more info just ask.


Homemade Lockout Kit for 2gen trucks - Pirate4x4. Com Bulletin Board

Dodge Ram 2500 4x4 Dana 60 Hub removal and converison to Ford Knuckles - Pirate4x4. Com Bulletin Board

Part time Hubs DIY. . Parts and tools needed - Dodge Diesel - Diesel Truck Resource Forums

Floyd

 

[JKosten]

That is some great info... now to find parts.

The funny part is I thought you had a rear axle free spin kit...