If the diff was locked he would have a hell of a time turning, even in a field. The tire with least ground resistance would be scrubbing/dragging in every turn.

 

Oh. Duh! Been working long hours.

 

I just picked up a 94 single cab dually 4x4 5spd cummins, 1800$ needs a little work but will be an excellent work truck.

 

Not if he had an actual locker. If he were welded or had a spool that would be the case. Real lockers unlock and only lock up when one shaft is going slower than the diff - so you gain offroad traction but just click around tight turns.

To keep on topic - I agree with the 2nd gen 12v or an older 7.3 - whichever is more plentiful in your area.

 

'94 to early '98 dodge 2500's (single rear wheel) have a Dana 70 rear end. 3500's (dual rear wheel) have Dana 80's, that may be another thing to consider. Both are full floating axles but the 80 is more common for parts and is typically easier to build.

 

why not a chevy 6.5

 

i bought a 2006 5.9 24valve cummins 3500 with a 6 spd of of ebay for 12grand n it bone stock but i have already pulled a house with it and i mean literally pulled a house bout five miles but hey im proud of it n the pic on my profile

 

 

chev 6.5 would be perfect and if u can get a 93 with mechanical injection it will be fine, cheap easy as heck to find parts for. i of course own one and would still prefer a 12v cummin for play but the 6.5 gets EXELENT fuel economy and is extreamly reliable. decent enough power and im getting 1000km per $100-$120 fill up with hoggs fuel additive truck really likes to be plugged in tho