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First test fit of the driver's side engine mount adapter plate. I decided to do a test fit before I drilled the other two holes. I also discovered the oil pan is already the correct one that will clear the front cross member. Another part I won't have to buy!
I just scored on a rear axle assembly from a Ford Explorer. It an 8.8" with 3.73 gear ratio. I ended up paying less money than it was going to take to convert my Dodge 8.25" rear axle to 5 lug and a locker. I am still on the hunt for a transmission. The core charges on transmissions are all over the map. I seen the core charges ran from $150 up to $455 in some places.
While I was picking up the rear axle assembly, I ordered a 4L60E 4 speed trans out of a Tahoe. The stock ECU on my motor was hooked up to this very model, so it should be plug and play (once I have it rebuilt). I got a rebuildable core for $750. Now to find a good, local, transmission repair shop. I should be able to pick up the trans in a couple days. Then I can bolt it up, and finish making the motor mount adapter plates.
I finished up my motor mount adapter plates today, in anticipation of the transmission arriving. Once the trans is bolted up to the engine, I can test fit it in the chassis and scribe my motor mount hole locations. The driver's side adapter is longer to compensate for the mount offset in the chassis.
Christmas came a little early in my shop! These Speed Engineering stainless steel headers showed up at my door. ARP header bolts, gaskets, and v-band clamps. These are mid length headers, with 1-3/4" primaries, and 3" collectors.
