72 Duster slant 6 to SB V8 Checklist

[1BadDodge71]

Ive decided to convert my 72 Duster to V8 power!First,i am going to start tearing it apart to do bodywork.Figure while i have it apart,i will start gathering all I need.I dont plan on anything radical(like 500 hp,lol)just a nice awesome running small block(318,340,360)that can handle its own on the street.Not looking to make a drag racer out of her,but a nice musclecar i can drive everyday if I can =)
I need help as to what all i will need.i know i will need a swap kit from Shumacher,new exhaust,bigger radiator.Will I need to get my driveshaft modified?What about torsion bars?brakes,rear end,etc.Any advice would help.Also,would I need a different tranny crossmember?Im looking to spend the least amount as possible.I would love to atleast get the conversion done first before painting it if possible,im not looking to do a full on resto as the car is in pretty good shape.

 

[1BadDodge71]

Seeing as though I dont have a garage,i may atleast paint the engine compartment first after all the bodywork is done,install the engine,and finish painting the outside.I was going to take to my work since its also a bodyshop but we have so many cars to work on,there barely any room.but for now,i will just gather the parts I need and start on the bodywork.The /6 runs fine right now so I am still able to move it around =)

 

[1BadDodge71]

ok,i just noticed this was for big block swaps.Should I repost this somewhere else?o.0

 

[71dustar]

i went from /6 to a 360. i did have to get a v8 k member but still able to use tranny mount since it had a 904 but i put in a 727.

the schumacher mounts are really good. as far as brakes it depends on what you want to do really. i went with a wilwood disc brake kit for up front and doing 11" drums in back. i kept the /6 torsion bars but maybe you'll want to get 0.89" torsion bars since i believe they were for v8 cars.

Rearend wise i would try to get a 8 3/4 because if you ever want to add more power you'll have the drivetrain to handle it but it can and will be pricey depending on what you go with.

 

[1BadDodge71]

i went from /6 to a 360. i did have to get a v8 k member but still able to use tranny mount since it had a 904 but i put in a 727.

the schumacher mounts are really good. as far as brakes it depends on what you want to do really. i went with a wilwood disc brake kit for up front and doing 11" drums in back. i kept the /6 torsion bars but maybe you'll want to get 0.89" torsion bars since i believe they were for v8 cars.

Rearend wise i would try to get a 8 3/4 because if you ever want to add more power you'll have the drivetrain to handle it but it can and will be pricey depending on what you go with.

thanks!As far as the 8 3/4 rear end,is that a direct bolt on?Could I use my stock leaf springs?Well,I was thinking of converting the front brakes to disc ,and also convert to the larger wheel bolt pattern.Im sure doing all of this is going to cost me .lol