Engine,trans,rear axle upgrade

[41P11Coupe]

Fellow Members

This is my first post. I have searched this site and the experience here is priceless. I would like to install a 318 and automatic transmission into this 41. I am also leaning toward the explorer rear axle. I don't plan on using the existing steering gear box My questions are these:

1)  Do I center the engine to accommodate the explorer rear axle ?

2)  If the engine is offset, how much?

3)  Does any off set allow for steering gear modifications?

 

Thank you

Ken

[Plymouthy Adams]

your offset will depend on the very components you use.....engine can set offset of rear axle and still be in phase....cast manifolds or headers..you did not state...nor did you indicate what steering change you have in mind.

[41P11Coupe]

I am looking to keep the stock exhaust manifolds a put in a dual exhaust system. I am keeping the original front suspension and steering linkage but would like a power steering gear box, I have read that the Vega one will fit.

[greg g]

Some people have mentioned light truck exhaust manifold/s that can aid the clearance problem.  But you would need to locate a likely donor and do some measuring.  Common knowledge contends that a 1 to 2 inch offset to the passenger side is necessary depending on the manifolds used.  I believe this one a repop available through Dorman is similar to what is used for the situation. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/rnb-674-271/overview/make/dodge  You can also google search for 318 manifolds then go to images, that will show you some of the factory permutations that might be found in local auto recyclers.

[DJ194950]

Check out this co. Make the mounts ect. for your changeover/ plus info on same.

 

http://www.butchscoolstuff.com/

 

and this for P.S. changeovers

 

http://www.fatmanfabrications.co/

 

DJ

Edited December 11, 2015 by DJ194950

[William Davey]

Some people have mentioned light truck exhaust manifold/s that can aid the clearance problem.  But you would need to locate a likely donor and do some measuring.  Common knowledge contends that a 1 to 2 inch offset to the passenger side is necessary depending on the manifolds used.  I believe this one a repop available through Dorman is similar to what is used for the situation. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/rnb-674-271/overview/make/dodge  You can also google search for 318 manifolds then go to images, that will show you some of the factory permutations that might be found in local auto recyclers.

I think the manifolds Greg is referring to are from a 1980's Dakota with 318.  IIRC, they are close to the block and have no pollution fittings.

[Frank Elder]

2000 durango/dakota 5.2s are awesome exhaust manifolds for the application.

[Frank Elder]

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=704013

 

First page...scroll past the no images you'll get there....if I was going 318 these are the manifolds I would want....quieter than some ratty old thin tin headers to boot.

 

post #9

Edited December 12, 2015 by Frank Elder

[Adam H P15 D30]

Something to ponder.... If you are going through all the trouble of a steering upgrade why not take the next step and upgrade the whole front suspension? While the original suspension was good for its time, it is still a kingpin suspension and has limitations. The ride is good and handling ok but it lacks the high speed stability and anti-dive characteristics of a more modern suspension. Plus a modern one would solve your steering box clearance issues. Food for thought...

Adam

[wayfarer]

How similar is the 41 to a 50?

Fester has a tidy install with an oem manifold:

http://p15-d24.com/topic/25759-318-into-my-50-coronet/page-3

[41P11Coupe]

Went and looked a  97 ram today from Craigslist, the motor smoked and wouldn't keep running so I moved on. I'm pretty sure I can find a decent Ram or Dakota as a donor vehicle. This car seems like it is in decent shape. I will have to replace some sheet metal but I think it isn't too bad. I'm going to start with the drive train and then move on to the body. Is that a good approach?

Ken

[dale]

Wondering how well the Dakota rear end would fit the 41...Trouble with replacing the old trns is you lose the parking brake.  Have you thought about going with Durango hemi and running gear ?  That would be way cool.

[wayfarer]

Wondering how well the Dakota rear end would fit the 41...Trouble with replacing the old trns is you lose the parking brake.  Have you thought about going with Durango hemi and running gear ?  That would be way cool.

 

Depending on how much go-power is needed, the 4.7 is a strong performer and would be a lot cheaper. My '02 Durango has over 150K on the clock and still runs hard.