Hello. I hope I am posting this in the correct area; I am considering buying a '69 Dart that originally came with a 340, but it's long since history. It currently doesn't have a drivetrain and I haven't performed a V8 swap before. I'm thinking about a 383 or 440. I found a complete drivetrain from a '70 RR (383, pistol shift 4sp and rear end) that seems to be decent. However, I have a few questions that I would like input on: what all needs to be changed to swap in this B body drivetrain? Are there other things to look for and/or look OUT for?

Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated. As mentioned, I haven't worked with a V8 swap before. I currently have an '89 turbo Chrysler that I swapped motor and trans with.

Thanks!

 

Check THIS out. It will be of great help. Also check out Big Block Dart. Putting a big block in an A-Body is quite a thrill, once it is running I'm doing it myself some day

I'll post more later...

j

 

Here is what I am doing with my Duster...

I'm looking for 11 second 1/4 mile times and being able to drive to and from the track.

mid 70's 400 B engine with a stroker kit from 440source.com for 451 CID. Specs on the motor are:

• 9.8:1 CR
• 292/.509 MP Cam
• Edelbrock Performer RPM intake manifold
• Either the 440source heads or Edelborock heads
• Holley 750 CFM Vacuum sec. carb

727 TF trans with a reverse manual Cheetah valve body
Dana 60 3.54:1 ( if I use an OD trans, 4.88:1 ) Rear narrowed 4 inches less than a standard A-Body
Sub frame connectors ( weld in )
I'm also considering a roll cage for NHRA legal drags.
Mini-tubs for wider tiers ( 29X10X15 ) probably M&H
I'm going to try the B-Body headers that were recommended at BB Dart website.

I'm going to use the Hurst Quarterstick

Some options you may want to consider are the Alter-K-tion front end, and Street-Lynx rear end. There is also the Caltracs.

Knowing what you want to do with the car is going to help. Road course, drag racing, what have you. The B engine is slightly smaller allowing you the use of the B-Body headers. They won't work with the RB engine ( 440 ) If it hasn't already been done, I would recommend upgrading to the big bolt circle single caliper disc brakes of the later A-Bodies, or better. If you upgrade to an 8.75 or Dana rear, you can go 11X2.5 drums easily, or disc as well. Also, depending on what you want to do with it, being daily driver or race car, will determine what Torsion bars you use.

The last, but not least, is cooling. You will need a radiator that will be able to cool your beast.

Hope this helps

j

 

Hey, thanks J!! This is a great help. I've been reading on BBD and have gotten some ideas. I will be watching for your build and might be asking a few questions. Thanks again!!!

 

Tony check out my 440 swap in my 68 Dart...

http://www.bigblockdart.com/forum/sh...-68-Dodge-Dart

 

LOL, Eric!! I've had it open the last couple of days and been reading it from the beginning!! Good stuff!! I may be asking a lot of questions of you in the future! Thanks!!!!

 

Eric, I want to comment on your BBD build but BBD.com hasn't approved me yet. I have been reading since post one and man, have you ever run the gamut with your build!! I'm on page 22 so far and loving and learning a lot!! Thanks for posting a blow-by-blow of this build. Keep up the great work!!!!!!

 

Thanks Tony thats why I did it...to help other people with the money losing headaches

Check out my Aspen thread in the F body section and vote for my car in the October voting pole..https://moparforums.com/forums/f68/october-voting-7750/

 

Finished with the BBD thread. Well, I hope I'm not finished, just caught up. I want to learn more about this Dart!!!

Also, voted for your Aspen. That is one sweet F body!!!