I could really use some constructive input to help me make a decision on my next move with my "Driver Pig".
Background on truck:
Purchased about a year ago, it is registered as a 1978 FJ55, however the body is mostly a 1974 with some 69 and 71 parts. Bit of a frankencruiser, but I'm ok with that. However, none of that matters, because the drivetrain and frame are 1978 (2F and 4 Speed), and that is where my dilemma is.
Current Situation:
Truck leaks like the Exxon Valdez and burns the oil just as fast. Frustrating, even though I don't have to worry about undercoating. Other issue is that the truck is stuck in 2wd and will not engage into 4H or 4L.
Parts I have to play with:
So I have another complete 2F, 4 Speed and Transfer case -
This setup is rumoured to have about 60,000 KM, so should be a good swap.
Here is where things get complicated, I have an 1987 HJ60 donor that I would like to steel the 5 speed transmission out of (quieter and better fuel economy). It comes with a split transfer case.
I would like to at least swap in the transmission.
So dilemma ONE - Parking brake, I would lose the drive shaft parking brake. So my options are:
1) Install split case and have no parking brake. Don't want that.
2) Keep 1978 transfer case. I'm ok with this option if there is no fitment issue.
3) Install split case and modify an aftermarket hot rod disk pinion mount (altered to fit) parking break like this one:
4) Install HJ60 axles, but that is a lot of work. And I wouldn't be able to use the lift springs I have ready to go into the truck (FJ55 3 1/2" lift springs).
What ever route I choose, I think a modification to the drive shafts will be required, but I'm OK with that.
So what do you all think?
Thanks!
Background on truck:
Purchased about a year ago, it is registered as a 1978 FJ55, however the body is mostly a 1974 with some 69 and 71 parts. Bit of a frankencruiser, but I'm ok with that. However, none of that matters, because the drivetrain and frame are 1978 (2F and 4 Speed), and that is where my dilemma is.
Current Situation:
Truck leaks like the Exxon Valdez and burns the oil just as fast. Frustrating, even though I don't have to worry about undercoating. Other issue is that the truck is stuck in 2wd and will not engage into 4H or 4L.
Parts I have to play with:
So I have another complete 2F, 4 Speed and Transfer case -
This setup is rumoured to have about 60,000 KM, so should be a good swap.
Here is where things get complicated, I have an 1987 HJ60 donor that I would like to steel the 5 speed transmission out of (quieter and better fuel economy). It comes with a split transfer case.
I would like to at least swap in the transmission.
So dilemma ONE - Parking brake, I would lose the drive shaft parking brake. So my options are:
1) Install split case and have no parking brake. Don't want that.
2) Keep 1978 transfer case. I'm ok with this option if there is no fitment issue.
3) Install split case and modify an aftermarket hot rod disk pinion mount (altered to fit) parking break like this one:
4) Install HJ60 axles, but that is a lot of work. And I wouldn't be able to use the lift springs I have ready to go into the truck (FJ55 3 1/2" lift springs).
What ever route I choose, I think a modification to the drive shafts will be required, but I'm OK with that.
So what do you all think?
Thanks!
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