A Few Random Questions

[PuddleJumper77]

Hello, I just had a few questions that I would like to ask:

1. Is there a better (stronger) hub assmbly around for the '94 Ram 1500 4WD?

2. If not, What Front end would you recommend?

3. I've been experimenting with fiberglass resin to build my duct work for my ram air hood. Any suggestions on what air filter/air box to use?

My truck has a 9'' suspension coil over lift, with 38'' tires. Any suggestions about anything would be extremely appreciated.

[PuddleJumper77]

Well, I asked these questions to a guy who had just about the same setup as me, and was basically called an idiot for having 38 inch tires on a half ton truck. Seeing as how I had never owned a truck like this before, I wouldn't call myself an idiot... Maybe ignorant, of what works, and what doesn't... So, since my fenders are already cut for that size of tire, I guess my only option is to go 3/4 ton on axles and wheels?

[bradrhale]

38" tires are going to requiring regearing in both pumpkins. i dont know what you have in the front but if it is a d44, i think you should be good to go. 3/4 axles will give you the added protection from breakdowns but the price tag that goes with this might not be in your field of view. i am currently running 35s on my 1/2 without the regear. nothing has failed but does lack in the power catergory.

for curiousity sake, how is the rear lifted?? 9in coil overs in the front are quite tall but a simple overload or add-a-leaf is not going to give you the height you need for leveling purposes. is the rest lifted utilizing blocks??

[PuddleJumper77]

yeah, the rear is blocked, but also its quite smooth, since the overload spring was removed... just cant haul anything too heavy. You sure are right about the lack of power. I thought if I took my 318 and bored it 60 over, ported and polished my heads, and ran headers, I would actually be able to keep my speed going up 6% grade hills (Ozark Mountains) but unfortunately I didnt see much of a difference except in fuel consumption and more frequent glares from the wife.

As for the gearing, I am not quite sure, to tell you the truth. Four years ago, I handed a friend of mine a few grand that i had saved up, and he went to town on gearing and rerouting all my vent lines up to the hood, so I can play in the creeks.

[bradrhale]

must be some pretty tall blocks. be mindful of those as they tend to create axle roll and this will be devastating to you in the even that it happens. the biggest in engine in the world will never work unless it has the proper mechanical advantage. lower your gearing from the 3.55s that you should be currently running to at least 4.33, and i do mean the very least. you will get a huge surprise at what she will do. you will also see an improvment in mileage.

[PuddleJumper77]

That's a good idea. I have to head to town tomorrow, to get a couple new tires for the front. Got a pretty good deal: 700.00 for both, mounted and balanced. Gumbo mudders.

I'll write back with the results in about a week, once I install and run some tests on mileage, for before and after results. Thanks again!

[bradrhale]

not a problem. if you need anything, give us a hollar.