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Winnebago 440 swap

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Old Feb 21, 2011 | 08:28 PM
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Default Winnebago 440 swap

I was wondering if a winnebago with a 440 would fit into a 1981 dodge w250 with a small block 360 and if it fits how much mod. mounts transmission etc...
 
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Old Feb 22, 2011 | 12:13 AM
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There's quite a few guys that have done it and there are some places that sell conversion kits and related items. I'm sure someone can throw in some links here for you.

If you go to 1st Gen forum and near the top of the page there is a search this forum tab. You can search your topic there. I found this pretty recent thread and he is willing to give advice and sell some parts to get it done. Might want to pick his brain to see if it's something you want to do. I do remember reading somewhere that a smaller brake booster is needed with the 440 motor for clearance. Also, this guy feels that a low compression cast motor 440 vs a higher comp. forged 440 is a slug on the track. What year is the Winne? I believe the cast motors started in 1972. Is the trans with it because you'll need the big block 727. Driveshaft length comes to mind but that may be something to ask about. What are you planning to use it for cause a D250 is kinda heavy for a racer. If you are pulling stumps - good but drag racing -bad...

It would sure be BAD-AZZ to say the least.

http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conver...dodge-ram.html
 
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Old Feb 23, 2011 | 12:08 AM
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i was just wondering about the eectronics like the ignition. this is my first engine swap. and if the 440 would match up to my 360 small block 4 speed manual with a new bellhousing
 
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Old Feb 24, 2011 | 07:44 AM
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You need a big block tranny, the big block mounts (may or may not work from the Winnebago), larger radiator, patience for wiring, exhaust, headers made just for a big block swap, truck rear sump oil pan and pickup, etc

This place sells all the conversion parts: http://www.bouchillonperformance.com/BPEtruckKit.asp

I used the small block power steering pump as it looked much better. There were so many little snags doing this swap but I can't remember all of them.

The 440-i is probably the motor in the motorhome... low compression heads & pistons. OK for a daily driver (if you don't mind 5mpg lol) but not great for performance.

Here was my swap:

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Old Feb 26, 2011 | 01:44 PM
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how do u tell if its the 440-i
 
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Old Feb 26, 2011 | 01:57 PM
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If it's from a 70's motorhome it's pretty much 99% guaranteed to be the industrial version.

Just look at the stamping on the block. It'll say 440-I or something like that.
 
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Old Feb 27, 2011 | 04:00 PM
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How much power would they produce? im curious about a swap like this also.
 
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Old Feb 27, 2011 | 04:47 PM
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I believe the smogged 440's in cars made 345hp (rated). I know the 440-I motors have lower compression pistons, heads, and smaller cams so it's definitely lower. I've been told as low as 250hp but I really don't know.
 
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Old Feb 27, 2011 | 04:56 PM
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I see, still quite a boost from a 6cyl or stock 318 HP numbers
 
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Old Feb 27, 2011 | 04:58 PM
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Definitely! Night and day difference from my 318 to this motor. Just have a carb and headers right now on it but I plan on a full rebuild soon as my other car is done. Get rid of all those post-emissions internals!
 
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