Dad's 71 Challenger

J72440rallye · Oct 7, 2019

DrEamer said:
My understanding is that the power steering mount off the vans work better in A bodies because it keeps the pump from hitting the battery tray. I can not imagine it being a bad thing for the E body as well. I am doing the same conversion with the 5.9/46RH too. I am stroking mine to a 408, and most likely convert mine to a LA V-belt. Looks like a great project !

The 408 should be amazing! I prefer the classic V-belt arrangement, but figured a stock serpentine setup should be very low maintenance and reliable for him. Keep me posted if you don't mind with your drivetrain build, any tips, tricks or issues that needed to be ironed out. Thanks!

J72440rallye · Oct 8, 2019

The 71 has the original 7.25 axle. Looking for recommendations on a solid swap to handle a mild Magnum 360, 100% street driven, posi (aftermarket or original), and retain the stock 5x4.5 bolt pattern. I was hoping to score an E body 8.75, but am open to junkyard options with a little cutting and welding. I had also contemplated building a junkyard Dana 60 for my 72 and moving my 8.75 over to the 71. Lots of options, just fishing for some info on a budget friendly and reliable swap. Any tips are greatly appreciated!

DrEamer · Oct 8, 2019

J72440rallye said:
The 71 has the original 7.25 axle. Looking for recommendations on a solid swap to handle a mild Magnum 360, 100% street driven, posi (aftermarket or original), and retain the stock 5x4.5 bolt pattern. I was hoping to score an E body 8.75, but am open to junkyard options with a little cutting and welding. I had also contemplated building a junkyard Dana 60 for my 72 and moving my 8.75 over to the 71. Lots of options, just fishing for some info on a budget friendly and reliable swap. Any tips are greatly appreciated!

A lot of options, If you can't find an E body, 8 3/4", one from a older/narrower B body will work with a spring relocation kit. Another options is use the F word, that's right, use a Ford unit. A 9 inch, as well as a 8.8, can be made to work without too much trouble. I wish you were closer, I am getting ready to pull my 8 3/4 from my Challenger in favor of a B body unit.