1970 Duster - 383

Welcome Camm! If your 73 parts car has a sway bar, it more than likely has front disc brakes also. If that's the case, I would use the entire k frame and front suspension from that car. As far as swapping to a manual transmission, if you want to do it, now would be the time to get the floor hump installed. That way, it will be in place whenever you're ready to paint the floor pan. Since you're installing a big block, it may be easier to use a hydraulic throwout bearing instead of monkeying around with a dozen pieces of linkage. If you decide on new leaf springs, ESPO is the place to go. If you buy new axles for the 8 3/4, get them from Dr. Diff. You can Google him, or he may even be a FABO sponsor vendor. We're glad you're here, so ask any question you may have. Most of us are old farts that have been fooling with these cars since we were your age, and we all had to learn our lessons. I'm still learning to, and hopefully won't stop trying to. In the last few days, I have learned that changing a starter on ANY old Mopar with headers is a pie job compared to replacing a starter on a Honda Element.....lol. Hang in there, you will get it done eventually. I say eventually because it's obvious that you have your priorities straight....family first! :)