Converting from a Dodge 1500 to a Cummins:
 

Has anybody done one of these? I was wondering the cost associated with it? I've found tons of 1500 dodges for dirt cheap like around 5k for a 98 etc. Anyway for anybody whose done this or doing this could you give me a run down on it? Thanks

Don't waste your time or money, just go find a good CTD and be happy. This would be a monumental undertaking.

too much work and money involved... just buy a CTD...

Yup, Yup - what he said - sad but true.

I have to agree. I'm doing a conversion, but 1) the truck it's going into is something special, 2) I got the donor Cummins truck cheap, and 3) the Dodge project truck even cheaper. Even then I'm likely to only break even in terms of value to money spent.

Well I understand all that.. it's just that I need a newer truck but I'm not willing to take payments just yet for it. I have cash and that's why I ask what it would cost in the long run. I see FordCummings does conversions (Price of Conversion

11k isn't bad considering taking off maybe 4k for labor as I would try this. but I would get my truck for 5k at most maybe less. so all together 12k at the very least... the cheapest Dogde I can find is around 16k with 4x4 ext cab, shortbed...

and then there's that BIG safety factor of having all that weight on the front of a 1500 frame!!
later, dustin

4BTA/NV4500 or 4BTA/NV4500/NV241 if your looking for a 4x4 :D

are the 1500 and 2500 frames different? I thought it was all in the suspension to hold up the weight of the diesel? If not please correct me

it's not as simple as dropping a Cummins into a 1500... you'll also have to think about the axles and suspension(especially the front end), a new transmission, driveshaft, and perhaps the transfer case.... not too mention stiffening the frame.

That Ford/Cummins conversion is a little more apples to apples since those trucks are 3/4 and 1 ton vehicles.

The frames are different between the 1500's and 2500/3500's. I think the 2500 frames are 9" compared to 7" tall in the 1500's.

Just like graphitecumnz said: Your going to put a cummins in a 1500 truck. Then your going to need a tranny/rear end to hold the tourqe. Want 4x4? Need a larger front axle too along with x-fer case. How bout front springs? Brakes to stop all this heavy equipment youve installed? Are you going to buy the engine new or reman? $5000-$12000 for a good engine. Ratiator, intercooler. Brake system conversion (diesels need hydro boost or vac assist).

So now youve pretty much got a 2500 except with the smaller frame and 1500 badges?

PS: You might want to buy a 2500 CTD 4x4 donor truck;) Just kiddin with ya:)

There is well over a thousand pounds on the front end....like the other guys said, the frame just isnt strong enough.

if one has done a few engine swaps it is about as easy as it gets. do not know about the towing part of it. frame still ok after a year + driving. wont go into details here, but read my sig. it really is a fun truck to drive. using 9.25 dodge rear, 3.21 ratio. dont use anything but 3rd gear most of the time. smokes the tires at will up to 45 mph 0 to 60 5.93 sec. :D

This is a silly idea. The 1500 frame and front end are alot weaker than a 2500 frame. You are asking for TONS of trouble plus you will ahve a one of a kind truck worth NOTHING when you are done. BAD IDEA![dummy]

i think if one checks the rated weight of a 1500 front axle you will find it is strong enough unloaded to handle the added weight. of the ctd. that being said i would never try to talk someone into it to try to make a profit. my truck is a daily driver gets 17.5 to 18.4 mpg in small town traffic. have 3 people rite now wanting me to put a price on it. aint many 82 dodge gassers out there that will bring 4k in my area. that would replace my parts cost including truck. the fun i have had with it is well worth the labor involved. not trying to start an arguement just what i have done and enjoying the heck out of it.