Posted by Winget on July 18, 1999 at 11:00:51:
I'm not repowering my old 3/4t Command Car, but if I did come across a PowerWagon that had suffered an engine transplant, and I wanted to return to a decent power/ Transmission With a power take off for a front winch, what would you suggest be done?
Guess the real question boils down to which engine/transmission/transfer(if needed) swap allows one to keep a power takeoff (even if it's not a Dodge, maybe even a two speed PTO?) and use the components of the original drive line?
Easy combinations such as a Small Block Chevy with (?) transmission allowing (?) powertakeoff use.
Ford 302 with (?) speed transmission and (?) power takeoff.
I've seen the Perkins Diesel repower kits for the M37, and although it may appear best, I'm a gasser guy.
Not looking for the long drawn out process, just what you might consider a simple combo for an everyday truck, allowing the original basic functions to be used.
(Please, I know about restoring, I know about rarity, I've heard about easy availability of engines, etc. Like I stated, "theoretically" which would be the simplest (non-destructive to the historical vehicle) upgrade for increasing power, shifting, speed, etc.)
It appears a lot of vehicles get chopped up before we gain possesion, and a satisfactory solution using the right combination might save both time,vehicle abuse, get a parts truck up and running, etc.
Thanks for the friendly advice in advance. Regards WAW
PS: No, I wouldn't even consider NOT going back to original on something like the Dodge PW Woody, or a truck that is fairly complete such as my CC was. The questions not for those situations. Thanks WAW