Project: Papa’s Dodge, stage one.

[Lonesome7.3]

I apologize up front; I did not think to take pictures today.
I got the new carrier installed and the axles slide into to place. I even installed the beauty rings and hub caps on the rear. I just have to run by the parts store to get gear lube and LS additive.
The biggest problem I have with the rear of the truck is the wiring. I can buy a simple adaptor that plugs directly into my OE Ford wiring for the trailer lights and brakes. But not with this old Dodge. I started by removing the birds nest of wires. Next I will repair the spices and rubs. I have no idea how I am going to complete this task. I want the wiring to be a clean install and I want to be able to unplug it like the Ford connectors

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I cracked open the engine and found this gruesome discovery. It upsets me to know this truck has so few miles on it but so much wear. Not to speak ill of any of my family members, but it pisses me off how others beat on this truck and did not care for it. My dad and I were the only ones to do so. And that was only during visits. Which sadly did not happen as often as they should have. I am afraid I am looking at an engine build waaaaaaaaaaay before I planned on it.

 

[DofD]

Wow, that is certainly something you didn't want to come across when you opened up the engine. It always surprises me why people don't look after things better. A little bit of maintenance to keep things from becoming a big problem later on.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I agree. When my granddaddy got on in age he could not take care of the truck. But that did not stop others from using the crap out of it.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

Being since I have to figure out what I am going to do about the engine I went after some of the other issues in need of addressing.
I think I have found my solution to the trailer wiring. I am going to build a standalone harness with some of these connectors. I can unplug them easily if need be.
But, I do not have everything I require so I addressed the HVAC box. Cutting the hole was a bit tricky with the tool I used. I moved slow, took my time and kept the drill on a low speed. I think it came out pretty well. The only hang up now is fasteners. I need flush tapered bolts but I do not have enough. I prefer the holes be a snug fit.
Next I am would like to install a screen under the cowl so I do not get any future debris problems. I also have to figure out what I am doing about the engine.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

A couple of friends of mine who are mechanics by trade told me to put it back together and run it. I agreed with them since the engine did not knock, smoke or give any indication of a problem. Actually, it ran so smooth you could not hear it running outside the truck.

I bought new gaskets but the ports are too big. I had a choice of small or large ports and went with the large. I thought because it was a truck engine it had larger ports. I was mistaken.

Being since it looks as though the heat riser needs attention I will clean it up while the intake is off the engine. Is there a reason to remove this plate on the bottom of the intake? Because it is riveted I am not sure I can reattach it.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

Last night I carefully cleaned the valley and installed new gaskets. Turns out the heat riser was not stuck. It actually moved pretty smooth. I am hoping to get the valve covers on and the linkage back together tonight.

I will be stepping up my search for the new engine. As much as I would like to build and run a magnum for the time being I think it is better to just jump in with a 4BT. More on that later.

 

[dirtyoldman]

Black RTV silicone would be a better choice than those cork gaskets.About a 1/4'' bead is recommended.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I Agree. They came with the kit and I am hoping to have a new engine lined up in the not too distant future.

 

[dirtyoldman]

A 440 would be nice....just sayin'