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Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 12:05 pm
by CaseyMopar
Hey everyone,
I'm currently converting a 1968 D100 Shortbed from a slant six with three on the tree to a 440 with auto 727, for drag racing. I'd like to see if anyone has any pictures or information on the transmission cross-member cuts that need to be done for the 727. I've picked up some auto cross-members and would like to know if I got the right ones.
The measurements for where to cut the old ones out are mostly what I'm looking for. I've attached images of what's in the truck and pictures of the new parts I've bought.
Any and all help is greatly appreciated!
Thanks so much,
Casey

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:46 pm
by sledgehammer
Here’s a couple pics from my ‘68 short bed, factory automatic.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:49 pm
by sledgehammer
I didn’t take any measurements but you can kinda see where to cut.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:50 pm
by sledgehammer
My “spanner” piece looks a little different then yours.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:51 pm
by sledgehammer
sledgehammer wrote:
Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:50 pm
My “spanner” piece looks a little different then yours.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 10:54 pm
by PwrWgnDrvr
There were several iterations of the spanner over the yrs.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2020 1:17 pm
by CaseyMopar
I believe I need a cross-member for the rear end of the 727, anyone have any idea where I could locate one?
Thanks

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2020 8:11 pm
by Txas2step
I used a cross member out of a '90 RamCharger. Used the cross member and trans mount. Drilled holes in the frame and fit like a glove. :Thumbsup
note: This was a /6-A745 3 spd to a 273/904, but will work on the 727.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 4:15 pm
by Mojunk
I could sure use that 3 speed cross member you are getting ready to cut. If it's worth it to you to blow out the rivets I'd like to buy it. I have two trucks that are both cut. Seems like any Dodge trucks are getting hard to find in the yards out west.
Duncan

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 5:56 pm
by PwrWgnDrvr
He needs the ends of that crossmember to attach the spanner which keeps the frame correctly tied together. The leaf springs are also attached to the crossmember and removing it will destroy the spring attachment.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2020 6:41 pm
by Jim100
Mojunk,
you should put a post in the parts wanted section. A good chance someone here has one. or two.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Sat Jun 27, 2020 10:39 pm
by Mojunk
You are so right! I'll post a wanted in the parts. I haven't looked at either truck for some time.

Re: Manual to Auto Conversion - '68 shortbed

Posted: Wed Jul 01, 2020 1:50 pm
by CaseyMopar
Mojunk, When I get the 3-speed cross member out, you're welcome to it!