!990 Dodge Ram D150 Pickup-Transmission and Differential?

[kkritsilas]

Hi,

I am looking at a 1990 Dodge Ram D150 pickup. The engine is a 318/5.2L V8 (LA judging from the use of dual drive belts for the accessories vs. a serpentine belt setup for a Magnum). Transmission is a 4 speed auto, most likely an A500/42RH, there is an overdrive lock out button on the column shift lever.. Differential is unknown. Questions are:

1. how much power (HP) or torque will an A500 hanlde reliably? The A904 which is the basis for the A500 is supposed to be good for 300 HP or so, is it the same for the A500?

2. Does anybody know what differential was used in these trucks? Any possibility that it would fit under a Mirada? Anybody have any experience with narrowing a differential in terms of what it costs and how long it takes? Is it even worth the effort with the differential in this pickup?

Kostas

 

[mirada82]

The rear end would either be an 8 1/4 or 9 1/4. More than likely its a 9 1/4. You tell by the shape of the diff cover. The 8 1/4 will be round and the 9 1/4 has flat sides and looks likes a stop sign. As for bolting in, it wont. The mirada spring perches are 44.5 center to center, and the d-150 is 43 center to center which is the same as an a-body mopar. Even if u move the perches, u might still have issues casue the d-150 rear end is about 4.5 inches longer from backing plate to backing plate. My opinion instead of paying to get it narrowed, try and find a 8 3/4 out of a 60's b-body. Its a direct swap,a nd by time u pay a shop to narrow the 9 1/4 and move perches, youll probably be in the same price range of finding a good used 8 3/4 somewhere. The parts are out there to make a 9 1/4 handle alot of power, but im not sure how strong they are stock.

 

[holmes]

I have a 1990 D-150 and the rear is mounted to the bottom of the springs.