Hello, I have a question about converting my truck to 4WD. It is a '82 D350 4-door , I put a 440 in it a couple years ago for the heavy hauling with the gooseneck I have to do. I need a 4WD in it so many times due to the mountain terrain I live in. Is it possible to convert this truck? If so, what year(s) truck could I get my hands on to get the parts from. I know there is no big blocks in this year truck for the transfer case, I could find that seperately if I had too. If a '78 truck would work, it would be an easy conversion. I know it would be easier to get another truck to suit my needs, but I love my Dodge and you do not see too many of these 4-doors around. Your help and thoughts on this is greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

It being a big block has nothing to do with the transfer case

If I remember right, the 82' Rams were still full time 4wd rigs. If that's true, then the '78 running gear should work. You'd of course need a big block transmission, or an output shaft for yours with the correct spline count. You'd also need a transfer case, rear drive shaft, front drive shaft, front axle, and a front suspension setup. You'd want to get them all from a 1 ton as well (you didn't mention what the '78 was). You don't want a Dana 44 under the front of a 1 ton

It's a lot of work (and in some cases $$$$), and honestly...to me, it's not worth it. I looked into it when I was looking for a new truck (ended up with the V10). You're better off already getting a 4wd truck, like you pointed out. You could always keep your current truck and get another rig for hauling. There are PLENTY of CHEAP V10s out there that would suit your needs perfectly and get about the same (if not better) mileage than the 440...and have more towing power on top of that!!! Just a suggestion

 

I use this truck for hauling and if I get another truck I would have to part with this one and that is what I am trying not to do. I can't afford insurance on two trucks. I have the knowledge to do the work, but what I am lacking is knowing if it will even work before I pursue chasing down another 1 ton and buying it for the parts. It's just that I like this truck and really don't want to part with it, just wished it was a 4WD. I have a lot of sweat and time put into it already and I am willing to put in more. The '78 was just an example, I was not sure if the frames (width's) were the same or not? Big blocks ended I believe in '79 so it would be easier to get one of those trucks if the frames are the same. Thanks

 

Why would the frame widths matter? [&:]

You're going to take the running gear out of a different truck and put it in yours anyway. You won't need the frame.

All you need to do is find another big block 3/4 ton or 1 ton so that you have the correct running gear.

 

Ok, I thought the frame width would make a difference for the spring mounts, stabilizer bar and such. I did not plan on using another frame, just the running gear. No other frame would work anyway with this 4-door model. I will try and find a 3/4 or 1 ton out there and take some measurements from it and go from there.