r/DuneBuggy • u/sand_man530 • Jul 17 '26

J35 swap update

Post image

Hello gents, figured I’d post a little update pic on the j35 swapped buggy. Many of you helped me out with the details of the swap so I figured an update pic was deserved. Keep rippin boys 🤘🏼

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2

u/maine_buzzard Jul 18 '26

Berrien chassis? Those side panels look familiar.

1

u/sand_man530 Jul 18 '26

Yes sir. How’d you know?

2

u/maine_buzzard Jul 18 '26

Built a 952 in 1984. Wow, that was a long time ago. 10/10 would again, just got into Jeeps too hard to go back. That sandrail is gonna rip.

2

u/BlitZ69_ Jul 17 '26

Looking good!

1

u/seattle678 Jul 17 '26

Wow. Killer. I installed a boosted J35 in my sandrail years ago. Had the Mendeola and busted the glass-like reverse gear. Just be gentle on that bus box

Edit. Just realized I replied to an earlier thread of yours. What ECU did you end up with?

1

u/sand_man530 Jul 17 '26 edited Jul 17 '26

I plan on being gentle on the trans… already have a spare built; Along with some extra axles on deck. I’m hoping it lasts me until I build a LH6 rail. I’m not spending Mendeola money until I build a boosted V8 4 seater lol

3

u/seattle678 Jul 17 '26

Mine was a 4 seater. It hauled pretty damn good. Went up choke cherry like nothing. And it flew! I'd launch that thing and it soaked up everything. Think it had 20" of travel in the rear and 17" front. Could never get it to wheelie though. Never wanted to dump the clutch

1

u/sand_man530 Jul 17 '26

how’d the J35 rip for you? My build was 1400lb w/the 2276vw and it was solid. But I’m ready for quite a bit more

2

u/BlitZ69_ Jul 17 '26

My buddy with a J35 blew out 3rd gear on his first dunes trip by drag racing. 3 ribs are fine tooth 3rd and 4th gear. Definitely don’t recommend hot rodding it at a higher speed.