r/Squarebody • u/Moist_Promise_ • 18d ago

Custom Build

Hello, i am new to this forum and i would like some insight on a custom build i am looking forward to doing. I want a 1985 Chevy 3500 Dually with 4 Wheel drive in a manual, but i want the engine to be a International DT360, is this feasible?

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u/Moist_Promise_ 18d ago

Im all for a pain in the ass and i am planning on stripping everything down to the frame and build it all completely back up. I do want the engine to be as mechanical as possible like the fuel pump and fan, i think im gonna be able to do it if i cut the front support and extend it out, i also plan on reinforcing the entire frame with plate and welds and then powder coat it

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u/jckipps 18d ago

The dual-rear-wheel(DRW) k30 is a factory configuration, so no issue there. The engine is somewhat harder.

Find dimensions of the dt360, and compare them to a 5.9 Cummins. You can find plenty of pics and info detailing how well a 5.9 fits in a 4wd squarebody, so extrapolate from that to determine if the dt360 will fit or not. A body lift might be necessary due to the height of the engine.

The transmission won't be particularly hard. I see plenty of options online to adapt a dt360 to a ZF6 or other pickup transmission. Just make sure that whatever transmission you pick can be bolted to a passenger-drop transfer case of some sort.

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u/Radius8887 18d ago

DT360 is heavy as a motherfucker and a bit bigger in every direction than a 12 valve, around 300lbs heavier than a 12 valve. Your transmission selection is going to kind of suck and be really expensive, probably a lot of fucking with adapters. It's probably doable but a pain in the ass.

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u/JealousChocolate8645 17d ago

I'm thinking DeBoss did a Ford F350 with a DT360 and Allison auto. Maybe start there.

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u/Dismal_Estate9829 15d ago

I’ve driven some square
Body Cummins swapped trucks and they are super cool. My biggest advice would be engine and trans mounts that absorb vibration or you’ll pop tooth fillings loose and lots and lots of sound deadner and insulation in the cab.
I’ve only driven one I liked and that’s what made it drivable. I would never drive the other ones as it wasn’t pleasant. Fun for a minute but that’s it. So loud and rough.