I have been tossing around the idea of re-powering my 1962 C1100 Fire Truck. with a diesel. Seeing as how I had a fairly major failure of the current 534 yesterday, that idea is now looking like a very possible option. I have read numerous posts talking about swapping to a 3208 or similar cat, but how much would be involved in the end. Will the 5 speed currently in the truck mate up to the cat or will there need to be a lot of fabrication.
Will I need to change the transmission and/or rear end to accommodate the different rpm power range of the diesel.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.


Ryan

 

534 used an SAE pattern bell, if what I've read here is correct. The Cat engine would do likewise.

Ratios? The 534 was good for what, 3400 rpm? It probably "cruised" at 2000-2500? Where is the Cat happy?

This would be a fair amount of work, with fuel system and accessory drives part of the little things after mounts and trans adaptation. Regearing could be a deal breaker. Perhaps a different trans with OD ratios would be a better thing to research.

I take it this is a hobby truck and they're not waiting for you out on the fire line, so look long and hard, make lists, check 'em twice.

Check this site. You may still go Cat, but you may get some ideas looking at their kits etc.

fordcummins.com - Increase Horsepower with Ford Cummins Diesel conversion kits