I've got a 1989 f350 4x4. Came from the factory with a 460 and C6 auto trans. Wanting to swap a 12 valve cummins in and I'm pretty open to trans options, I hear swapping the older fords from auto to manual can be a pain so if it's too big a deal I could handle a built E40D. Really want a 5 or 6 speed though. I'm wanting to do the project right, if I find a wrecked 12 valve with low miles in good shape I'll just leave it predominately stock. If its higher mileage ill rebuild it. I'm wanting something dependable, powerful, not sluggish on the interstate and something that'll last for decades for less than the price of a crew cab cummins around 2006 model. Looking for some total cost estimates? Some headaches from y'all's builds etc. thanks.

 

The manual swap is very easy have done it to at least 10 80-90's trucks all you need is pedal set up from an 87-91 f-150-350 and a clutch master cylinder (junkyard). I would highly recomend finding a complete dodge truck for the swap preferably 94-98 and with the nv4500 trans. You will spend more money if you do it one piece at a time. The only thing you will need to buy other then a parts truck is going to be motor mounts unless you build your own. I think you should be able to find a parts truck for anywhere from $2-6,000 and the motor mounts are anywhere from 300-700 I went with the autoworld mounts (they are the expensive ones) . I did mine piecemeal and I spent $1600 on a 97 12 valve motor with 60,000 on it ( I searched for a long time to find that deal) I bought a rebuilt and upgraded nv4500 and bellhousing $1500 By the time I am done with everything I will be close to or over $7000. But I am also going for 500hp If you need any more info pm me I know alot about these fords. There will be other little things you will need to do but most of them are cheap or free if you are creative

 

I really appreciate it, that's going to be very helpful. I will be hitting you up from time to time for pointers if you don't mind

 

I got a 12v/nv4500 parts truck for $1500 (albeit high miles). I don't consider rebuilding quality stuff any sort of a problem. Makes more sense than rebuilding a 460/E40D thats for sure.

 

Do you have a build thread? I'm about to do an identical swap to my 88 f350 4x4 that originally came with the 460/C6 and could use the help

 

I do not have a build thread I am waiting unitl I get a couple more pieces togethor. But I can answer just about any questions you have, I know these fords very well. PM me if you need anything

 

Did you ever start on this?