So I have been looking for a second generation Ram 2500 4x4 ECSB for a while and can't find one in the right price range or good enough condition around here. There are plenty of 2500's around here with long beds, but I can't stand long bed trucks since I plow tight areas with my truck. I started thinking about making my own since I really need the 3/4 ton suspension and torque. If I buy the axles, trans, drive shaft, and engine from a 2500 will it all fit on my 1500 without modification? If not what will I need to modify? Any other thoughts about this crazy project is appreciated. Thanks!

 

V8 engines for both trucks are the same. I would never swap a V8 out for a V10 and a cummins swap will require pretty extensive modification.

as far as suspension goes, a d60 upfroront is a direct bolt-in. a d70 for the rear requires minor modification. leaf springs will bolt right up i beleive

 

This is seeming much easier than I thought at first! The only reason I mentioned the engine is I have the 5.2L in my 1500. I thought about dropping a cummins in, but then I'd get into modifying the fuel system... I am jealous of my buddie's 1/2 ton with a diesel in it! Thanks

 

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...a-60-swap.html

A couple of people here have done the swap xxxcowxboyxxx in the above link is one
meanwhitemopar is another.
I'm sure they will be here soon

 

Just remember that the 2500 will have a heavier frame so you will not be able to match the weight ratings. There are also legal issues. You may be able to haul more now but its still a 1/2 ton legally so if you are ever in an accident and hauling to much...

 

Step 1: Sell your 1/2 ton
Step 2: With cash in hand, buy a 3/4 ton

Its so easy, a caveman could do it!

 

Thought that was car insurance?

 

if your doing the swap show us some pictures, i have considered doing it to my half ton but then again i also considered buying a wreck 2500 similar to ours and putting my motor tranny and body on it

 

i plow with my 1500, its an qcsb 5.2 auto 4x4, i havent swapped axles or anything in my driveline. what i did do was, swapped out the stock coil springs for diesel springs(gives 2" of lift and adds weight capacity to handle a plow better), and i installed a 2" HD add-a-leaf in the rear. i put about 500#'s in the bed strapped against the tailgate. i have an 8' hd fisher plow on it and the front end drops MAYBE and inch, if that... when i get some money i will be going with a d60 front and a d60 or d70 rear with 4.10's. but as for now its a perfect setup, and it plows great!

 

My front suspension is upgraded to 3/4 ton parts. Where do you recommend I get an add-a-leaf for the back. I have a helper kit that adds 500lbs of capacity, but can't find the right add a leaf. I haven't really done a ton of looking yet.