K-Frame: change / swap-out.

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Tulsa Time

Tulsa Time

One MOPAR Fan
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K-Frame: change / swap-out.

408LA with A518 transmission.

I bought a used k-frame with better parts on it than the modified slant 6 unit in my 75 duster.

Here’s the parts advantages that will come with the new k-frame:

  1. Manual gear box
  2. Tubular control arms
  3. Kelsey hays 4 piston brakes.
  4. Adjustable strut rods.

I discussed which would be the easier procedure. We came up with two options provided using the two post car lift.

  1. Take parts off the new k frame and put them on installed k-fame individually.
  2. Support and leave the engine and transmission in place and swap the k-frames with most parts already installed.
Never swapped a k-frame or even seen one completely out of a car.

Requesting some experience advise here if you may.

Thanks in advance.

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I am 76 and a few years ago i swapped one in my 67. You can either make a jig/ tool to support the engine on the frame horns, or I just put a big timber (4x4 I think) padded with rags across the fender aprons and then sawed 2x4s proper length to go down vertically from the 4x4 to the frame rails. Short chain, carefully (on the hoist) jacked the engine up a bit, then chained it to the 4x4 and let it back down. From then on it's common sense. Pull the T bars, steering column, your choice of how to separate the upper suspension, etc etc. I just used tie down straps to hold the thing when I dropped the bolts out and then let it down.

I used to have more/ better photos

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I wasn’t sure if the fender aprons were strong enough for my initial idea. So what you said about the 2x4 dropping down from the 4x4 to the frame rails is very helpful. I’ll probably cut up an anti fatigue or a yoga mat to pad the wood now I’ve heard someone else has done it.
 
I have swapped k frames with the engine in place by supporting the engine with a cherry picker. I supported the car on jack stands to slide it in easily.
 
The person selling their K-Frame to me reluctantly said they were going coil over tubular subframe and a LS twin turbo setup. Boo hiss. Haha. They also offered to help if needed. Yeah, all the community I have encountered has been awesome. Just another chapter in the life of my car.
I just thought of the Kelsey brakes, don’t they mount towards the front? I was curious about the rubber lines versus my current j-body setup.

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Johnny Mac said:
I have swapped k frames with the engine in place by supporting the engine with a cherry picker. I supported the car on jack stands to slide it in easily.
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I did this a couple of weeks ago installing my QA1 k member. My Harbor Freight cherry picker has paid for itself many times over.
 
I've also done it with timber across the fender aprons and rags for padding. I didn't put the supports on the frame rails though.

Once it's supported, remove Torsion bars, shocks and upper control arms from their cams, the 4 k member bolts and lower the whole assembly down.

You're miles ahead with a lift, just makes things easier.
 
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