Lockdown

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

Mcmopar

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

graphitecumnz

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

CTD NUT

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

PeteRR

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.

Lockdown

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...

Lsufan78

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

243

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

Lockdown

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

graphitecumnz

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.

DZLPWR

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

Dr. Evil

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

jughead

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.

Geico266

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!

jughead

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.