Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Switch cab or engine??

[dwatson1]

I have a 94 2500 4wd auto trans. truck with a rust problem. I've located an identical truck with 2 exceptions,5-speed manual trans. and gas engine. Has anyone swapped all body parts, the cab being my biggest concern. Or can I possibly switch engines and end up with the diesel and the 5-speed, maybe axles. Not sure witch swap makes the most sense or are both ideas dumb.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Is the truck you found 2500 or 1500? I would switch cabs but probably the same mount of work swtiching engine and trans.

 

[JR]

It really all depends on how bad your current truck is rusted. If the gasser is a 2500 or 3500 and has a better frame and body than your current truck I would swap the engine into the gasser. Youll have everything you need to do the swap and will wind up with a cleaner rig.

 

[HBarlow]

It will probably be easier to exchange cabs because there are more components that will require change than just the engine and transmission.

 

[dwatson1]

The gasser is a 2500. Does the cummings bolt up to the gasser bell housing if I wanted to use the 5-speed or would I have to change out engine and auto. trans.

 

[CharlieFoxtrot]

If the gasser is a V8, it has a Dana 44 front and a Dana 60 rear. Your diesel has a 60 front and 70 or 80 rear. The gasser also has smaller calipers in front. Not sure what is under a V10.



I am under the impression that the trans will bolt up, Whether it's the same strength as a diesel trans, I have no idea.



If you have a friend with a lift or an A-frame hoist (or a forklift?) I would definitely do a body swap.



I'd love to roll a 4x4 frame under my body...



BTW, it's a Cummins. No "g" in it. Cummings is a town in Georgia.

 

[JR]

good point Charlie I forgot about the 44s in the earlier gas rams. The only way the gasser truck will have the same axles as a diesel chassis is if you find one with an 8800 gvw chassis or a v10 engine otherwise like Charlie says youll most likely have the lighter axles

 

[shoalsgary]

Sell 'em both and buy what you want..... easy!