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Thanks guys, and awesome info on the truck Wayne! Interesting about the engine swap. We are both just itching to try a test fire of that thing (will still be a bit) but in the meantime we are investigating which parts we can use. It appears to have the same transmission as ours (except with the trans style parking brake), and the rad holds water so that's a big plus. My son is really enjoying the learning curve, and I am getting continual texts like these:
While he plugs away at that stuff I am trying to sort out rear axle possibilities. His needs brakes so I have been scouring the area looking for a Dana 60 donour. So far the only one I have located is from a 73-79 series and of course it’s an oddball having come from a High Boy.
When you get a chance, there may be some parts on that donor truck that could help other big truck fellas 'round here - things like the steering gear, brake parts, wheels and the axles.
While he plugs away at that stuff I am trying to sort out rear axle possibilities. His needs brakes so I have been scouring the area looking for a Dana 60 donour. So far the only one I have located is from a 73-79 series and of course it’s an oddball having come from a High Boy.
If it's from a true 73-76 F250 highboy you might give that rear a second look. The highboy 4x4's kept the same narrow frame as the earlier trucks so the spring pads on the axle are still in the right place. I'm not sure if the axle is any wider, or if it is by how much. It's worth checking out if that's all you can find reasonable.
Wayne, I checked that axle and it has the extra overall width (wms to wms) of the 73-79 series, along with the narrower spring pad width of the 64-72 series. Installation wouldn't be too bad as a result. I'm not sure if there are any other differences in the High Boys (and it apparently came out of a true High Boy truck). We are still batting ideas around, but this axle has what I suspect would be the best all-around ratio for us (4.10). I'm kinda tempted to get it as a "just in case" thing to have on hand. These axles are quite rare up here, and the price is good. We can always sell it.
That engine and frame are a great find! Protect it from the night sky and elements, so condensation doesn't rust it! That could really set you back. I love following this project, keep up the good work and education!
