Hi all, I've been doing a lot of reading on several different forums after buying a 68 M715 a couple weeks ago. I found one on Craigslist for a grand with very little rust and most everything in tact, and fell in love. Seller claims that it runs, but I haven't verified yet as the batteries need replaced. I have already located another Craigslist gem of a donor truck, a 95 Dodge SRW with 5.9L Cummins and a manual transmission. My plan is to swap in the diesel after it is rebuilt and upgraded a bit (400hp+-). I'm also wanting to keep the AC as well. The clutch has already been upgraded so it should hold. I plan on swapping the axles over from the Dodge as well so that I can have modern brakes, more gear, wheel and tire options, and have the ability to travel faster than 50 mph. I also plan on swapping from 24v to 12v and installing a new harness so I don't have to worry about electrical issues, or buying expensive replacements.
The posts I have read suggest that fitting the diesel in is tight but doable, but I need to do a springover lift. Also I read that I can use the axles from the Dodge, but would need to change out the stock transfer case to an NP205. Anyone with experience doing these swaps have advice? Anything I'm wrong on? Also, I'm looking to get replacement gauges that come close in appearance to the factory gauges, any suggestions?
My truck will see a bit of off roading, but mostly street, and some towing
Thank you all for your help, I appreciate it.