JPrewitt

Thinking about converting my 1989 D250 727 auto to a 4X4, but I don't have a donor at this time. What 4X4 truck would be the best donor? .....while maintaining my 727 auto.

oliver foster

The Dodge Cummins trucks came from the factory with the 727 from '89-'91.0.
If you want the donor truck to have a 727 you would want one from those years.

JPrewitt

Mr. Foster, Would the donor truck have to be a Cummings or could it be a W150. Im assuming that Dodge used the 727 in the W150 line. Or what about a W250 gasser?

oliver foster

The gasser 727 is different that a diesel 727.
You might be able to find a W-250/W-350 gasser with the right 23 spline NP-205 though.

I am assuming you also want a W-250/W350 for the 4x4 frame for all the front suspension and the Dana 61 front axle.
You would need to get a '89-'91.0 Cummins powered truck to get that "rare" 3.07 axle gearing, to match your rear axle, that ONLY came in the '89-'91.0 AUTO Cummins trucks.

NJTman

Mr. J
There are at least a dozen other conversion to 4x4 threads fully detailed with instructions on how to convert a 2wd to 4wd, transmission , frame, suspension and other requirements for doing so. They even have pictures to follow along.

Look in thrashingcows or mknittle threads and step by step process will be revealed. As Oliver described, You need a 250 or 350 series donor, as the 150 series parts or frame memberscan't support the torque or weight of the engine, at least not for very long before failing

Make sure you photograph, document, and share your conversion with everybody. Most of all, have fun doing it.

1972RedNeck

Nah, 3.07's were available through '93 with the Getrag.

CumminsBrochure1993.pdf

j.fonder

and no telling if his D250 has 3.07 rear to begin with. i've seen 727 trucks with 4.10 rear. you weren't going anywhere in a hurry in that truck.

oliver foster

I was waiting for someone to call me out on that.
Yes it was an option that COULD be special ordered from the factory, but I have only seen ONE factory Getrag truck with 3.07s in my life. I have seen / owned quite a few 1st gens over the years.

I was just trying to help him find the right parts for his swap. Too much info tends to confuse people sometimes. He needs a 4x4 727 and a 3.07 geared front axle, his best bet is a '89-'91.0 auto Cummins truck…Right?

Good luck finding a 5 speed 4x4 donor truck with 3.07 gears.

1972RedNeck

I figured you of all people would know - I just had to keep you on your toes...