I have a 1989 Dodge Ramcharger, 5.9L (360) TBI, V-8, 4x4, Auto trans (TF-727), NP-241 Transfer case. My transmission is terminally ill, which leaves me with various options…
1) Rebuild the existing
2) Replace with a rebuilt/remanufactured TF-727
3) Replace with a A-518 (46RH) - used, rebuilt or remanufactured
I have been reading a lot about converting to the OD transmissions but all I have been able to find is for cars with vague reference to the ability to do the same for 4x4s. I like the idea of the OD, but question the ease of this update (in the reading I have done the biggest problems are drive shaft length, transmission mount modification and modifying the body to accommodate the larger transmission) none of these is really a problem with the 4x4 except maybe if the relocation of the transfer case is required due to transmission length. The biggest problems, assuming everything bolts in without further changes (see questions) is being able to afford and find a good rebuilt/remanufactured A-518 (46RH). If I make this conversion I will control the OD and TCC as advised by PATC. I understand that I will need a 1990 through 1995 transmission to keep the hydraulic shift controls.

1) Is the torque converter the same from 5.9L (360) and 5.2L (318) in the A518 (46RH) transmissions?
2) Will the torque convertor in the A518 (46RH) bolt to the existing 1989 5.9L (360) without changing any parts?
3) Will the A518 (46RH) transmission bolt to the existing transfer case?
4) Will I have the move the transfer case back or forward due to different length in transmissions?
5) Will the existing starter bolt to the A518 (46RH) transmission?
6) Will the existing shift linkage work?
7) Will the existing throttle linkage work?
8) Will the existing speedometer connection work?
Not sure which why I am wanting to go, some will depend on the answers to these questions and the advice I get, the rest on the cost of each option.
Thanks for the answers and advice.
Jim

 

You can do either trans...the 727 is a great trans, is inexpensive and easy to rebuild.

If you are going to do the swap go to www.car-part.com and find a RamCharger or truck close to you (or find a pick-a-part) to get the cross member, drive shafts, linkages, etc.

Remember with the a518 your front drive shaft will need to be longer and the rear will need to be shorter. You can find a 90-93 RC in a junk yard eaisily to get the parts.


1) Is the torque converter the same from 5.9L (360) and 5.2L (318) in the A518 (46RH) transmissions?

If your going to rebuild your trans or get an a518 get a converter (new or with the trans)

2) Will the torque convertor in the A518 (46RH) bolt to the existing 1989 5.9L (360) without changing any parts?

Yes

3) Will the A518 (46RH) transmission bolt to the existing transfer case?

Yes

4) Will I have the move the transfer case back or forward due to different length in transmissions?

The transfer case will be moved back since the a518 is longer

5) Will the existing starter bolt to the A518 (46RH) transmission?

Yes

6) Will the existing shift linkage work?

I've never compared them side to side...when I got my a518 to swap I also got all the linkages.

7) Will the existing throttle linkage work?

I've never compared them side to side...when I got my a518 to swap I also got all the linkages.

8) Will the existing speedometer connection work?

The a518 I picked up had an electric speedo and VSS in the trans. I'm uncertain if all a518's were this way or had a mechanical\cable attachment. But adapters are available.