1987 Dodge D150 LT from North America - Comments

I haven't had any problems with the truck since I've owned it. The engine runs strong and doesn't burn a drop of oil.

It has the 3 speed auto, which I don't like, and I would like to put a 4 speed manual in it, but I'm not sure if this is do-able. I know this isn't a site to ask for help, but I figure if I can tell what I dislike, some can tell me what I can do to make me like this truck that much more. And that's by switching it to a manual 4 speed for better fuel mileage for the most part and being more fun to drive.

I'm currently in the process of turning this slant 6 into a super six by changing the camshaft, putting in an electronic ignition and changing it from a single barrel carb to a 2 barrel and changing the intake and exhaust manifolds. Only problem is finding the parts to turn it into a super 6.

It's a good truck. I'm 17 and want to have fun. It may not be fast at all, reaching a top speed of 120 kph, but I sure can beat the heck outta this old truck without any worries. The only thing is the fuel; It's killer on the fuel mileage and I wish there was a way to improve this, but really there isn't other than if I take it easy on the gas, put in an automatic with overdrive (if there's one compatible) or a manual 4 speed.

Sure, it's totally possible, but I think your best bet would be to swap the good ol' slant 6 out for a 318 out of nearly any large Chrysler car or truck from the last 25 years. Tell ya the truth, the 318 would probably get the same mileage as the slant 6 because the smaller engine really has to work hard to pull that truck around with the automatic. The 318's were just as reliable as the slant 6 and easier to find tune-up parts for. Check out allpar (dot) com for more help.

If you like the slant six keep it! It is just as reliable, if not better then the 318/360s, less HP with more Torque.

I am in the same boat, 18 with an 86 D150 225 auto that needs some upgrades. Dodge made a four speed OD transmission (A833) that will work for the slant six, you just need the bell-housing. Look for older dodge vans, they always seemed to have them, or old Aspens.

Take note that if you are tearing apart your motor you can shave a good .060 of the top of the block to bump up compression closer to 9.0. I am going to see how it works on my this summer.

Good luck.

Clifford performance has all your performance needs for the slant 6. That's where I got mine. Not for my truck (I just bought it), but for other vehicles. They have everything from 2 piece headers, 4bbl intakes, and cams, to complete rebuild kits and performance heads. They even have a fuel injection kit if that's what you prefer. Good luck and have fun!