The 2.3 in my 81 Courier doesn't have enough compression to run properly, the trans is a little clunky, and the front end is worn out.
Fortunately, I just parted out a Wagoneer so i have a pair of D44s, I also parted a Mercedes diesel so I have a 5-cyl turbodiesel engine (OM617 for those in the know), and I picked up a M5R2 transmission. Stay tuned for details-

 

check out mechmgcn's use of a merc turbo deisel in his 53 on the 48-60 forum .

 

Sounds like a cool project in the making! looking forward to hearing more about it!

Mitch

 

Engine:

First half of adapter plate:

I'll mount the trans and lay out the other holes tomorrow along with the bellhousing outline.

 

Damn Jared, it's August, and you already have snow on the ground? Or is it STILL on the ground? hahahahaha

 

Well, I think the pic is from January. It just shows how quickly I have been working on this project-

 

Lined up the trans and marked several of the holes today, plus I bent the tubing up for the front radius arms.

 

Got the plate just about done and bolted up the transmission for a photo:

 

Sounds like one heck of a project! How's the body of the truck?

 

Any pics of the body?

 

It's not too bad:

Interior:

Current oil-puking 2.3:

 

It's not too bad:

Interior:

Current oil-puking 2.3:

I have a new fender for the left side, and a new 77 grille without the marker/turn signals. I'll be moving those to the bumper. Truck is going to be OD green, grille is matte black, and the tailgate letters along with the side Courier badges will be Khaki.

 

This is pretty cool! Any more progress?

 

Cool project! But that thing is screaming for a turbo'd 7.3L IDI!

 

Haha, that would be overkill, cool project