35's and 4.56 gears are a very good combination however you still would be better off finding a couple Dana 60's.

1. they are HD axles and you will be much less likely to break them
2. they have larger brakes which is necessary to stop the rolling weight of those 35's
3. the front axle has king-pins so you won't wear out ball joints every 2 years with big tires

If you figure that 2 sets of 4.56 gears will run $600, 2 install kits will run $400 then the labor involved depending on your area could be up to $500 per axle which is what most shops around here get.

If you watch www.car-part.com, craigslist, or even eBay for your area you can probably find a pair of D60's with 4.10's or even 4.56's for less than $1,500. The nice thing is any axles from a 1980-1993 W-250\350 will practically bolt into your truck.

 

Got to say, I never even thought about switching axles but I definitely will now. Thanks.

What are king-pins?

 

King Pins; with regards to the D60, on HD axles king pins are used instead of "ball joints" due to their HD design. On the bottom of the spindle they utilize a tapered roller bearing\cup design that stand up better to heavy usage and the weight associated with larger wheels\tires and the overall size and weight of the truck in general.

On the top of the spindle they use a metal "cone" and bushing.

If you go here you can see what they look like:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billav...pin/index.html

 

ah ok thanks

 

http://www.precisionengine.com/rebui...par/index.html

If you are still looking for a motor, most of the way down that page they list 360 long block's for $1200. That includes heads and such. Hopefully it helps you out.

 

I have a short block though.

With a long block, alot of stuff would have to be changed right?

 

I don't think I understand the question...

short block


long block


EDIT: pay no attention to the timing cover being there on the short and not on the long, the difference is the heads are installed on the long block.

 

Maybe Im confused. Whats the major differences between the two? Will a long block 360 fit where a 318 short block was previously?

 

Long block or short block refers to how complete the motor is. A bare block with a rotating assembly installed with no heads is referred to as a short block. A long block is a short block, plus heads. So to answer your question, the motor in the link i posted will fit in your truck, yes. Or if you wanted, they have the same deal on the page with the 318, for $100 less...

 

oh. wow. I always though a long block was actually... longer.

Arent heads always on an engine though? I dont think Ive seen an engine without them other than pics like the one above.


Just found that on craigslist too. Price sound spretty good for a 360. But who knows if its beat.
http://norfolk.craigslist.org/pts/2947065304.html