Posted by Matt Wilson on Sunday, January 06, 2002 at 1:44PM :
In Reply to: COBBLED PW posted by STROLLER on Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 8:34PM :
Axle shafts are not the weak link in the drive line, but I believe the differentials are plenty strong (never heard of a problem, even under high power).
The frame came from the factory with the reinforcement channel. Why??? Not sure, except that perhaps the basic frame was already available from another Dodge truck model, and it was a quick and easy adaptation to the Power Wagon by installing the reinforcement pieces. Just my guess. At any rate it seems to work well.
Be sure to get the Power Wagon Survival Guide from Greg Coffin (he posts on this site). It lists most bearing and seal part numbers for the entire truck and even some brake hydraulic components. You can use these numbers to get the parts from places like NAPA, Carquest or your local bearing supplier.
You are fortunate in that parts for these trucks are mostly readily available, if you check with the right sources.
Get a subscription to the Power Wagon Advertiser. It has technical articles, advertisements for trucks and parts and positive, inspirational thoughts on life, from the editor. There is a link to this publication's web site at the top of this page.
Have fun!!
Matt
Matt