Perhaps, but...


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Posted by Brian in Oregon on Sunday, May 19, 2002 at 0:37AM :

In Reply to: Re: Need the 318 Lowdown ....... WHAT?? posted by MoparNorm on Saturday, May 18, 2002 at 3:18PM :

I do not know a lot about Poly's, but isn't it true they use a different bellhousing pattern and motor mounts from the LA? If so, the Helitool kit will not work for them.

Going further, I also note a lack of even basic mild performance equipment for them, plus what little is available is expensive.

I'd also be worried about width. Are the exhaust manifolds further out than on the LA? You already have to put a slight eyebrow notch in your frame for the Helitool kit. I'd not care to make it larger if the Poly manifolds are out further.

Also, where are the radiator outlets on a Poly? The ideal location is that the lower hose is on the passenger side.

Another point is that the frame does not have to be notched for an LA if you use the new lightweight starters. Will this starter work on a Poly? Using the original starter on an LA would require grinding on the frame.

Another point is that the Poly has mechanical tappets while the 318 LA hs hydraulic. This is an importan point for those who do not want to do periodic valve adjustments.

I'm not knocking the Poly. I fiddled a bit with one on a heavy Dodge dump truck a decde ago. Hard worker and reliable as gravity. It's just that these questions need to be answered before deciding the merits of the Poly over the LA IN THIS PARTICULAR APPLICATION. I emphasize that because a well designed conversion is a blend of both engine and vehicle.





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