37 Dodge update (taking your time)

[Mike P]

I haven't posted any updates on my Hemi powered 37 Dodge truck lately because I decided to step back from it for a while, finish up some other projects, and figure out exactly how to proceed next. I do this sometimes rather than rushing ahead with something only to find out latter that I don't like it. I do keep an eye on E Bay looking for parts for the project.

[Mike P]

Got to love the notched frame (which still won't let you remove the manifold) and straight axel with the optional block of wood, and the rear end width.

Neither has the steering connected.

[Mike P]

Unfortunatly I don't have any good pictures of my engine installation in my gallery, but mine is set back to the firewall (which was butchered prior to me buying it) and the water pump will actually sit in the center of the radiator. My frames not chopped up and the tires are also UNDER the rear fenders.... What a concept!!!!

[Mike P]

You can't really tell too well on this picture, but mine is raised to clear the frame rail which gives the added benifit of centering the fan into the center of the radiator and all kinds of ground clearance with the stock pan. The fenders had to be trimmed a little (which would have had to be done regardless of where the engine went). The trimming is minor enough that the hood sides can still be installed if I decide to use them (like when I park it overnight going cross country).

I shortened a Chevy van steering column 14" and the steering and shifter are connected, and the master Cyl is hung and a custom brake peddel fabricated and hung.

A cardboard template has been made for the floor and firewall, but I'm not sure I'm going to like the way it will look, so that's why I'm stepping back for a littler bit. "Just staring and mind picturing what I want to do" Like you I've found it saves a lot of time and work in the long run.

[Mike P]

Sorry, picture didn't post the first time

[Mike P]

These kinda problems are what I love to get tangled up in when I am fabin' a streetrod..




Nice to see they cut your meds some more . By playing with where the engine went no frame cutting was necessary. With the engine set at the height I have it, the manifolds I'm running (which are slightly bigger than the other guys) sit above the frame and are angled in enough to run 2 1/2 head pipes. I think I could even get the shorty headers they sell for these engines in there if I want. It took about 2 days of test fitting to find the 1 place where I liked the engine.

The real challenge was to build a nice looking motor mount for the drivers side that allowed clearance for the steering. Again a lot more time just looking and holding pieces of metal up to it than actually "working".