That is really cool man. I want to hear all about this conversion. My 83 300d's body is in pretty rough shape, but its engine is really strong. I think putting that beautiful OM617 into a beautiful early domestic pickup body would be just the ticket. Could you maybe summarize what you did during this project from beginning to end or post some pictures? It is just the bomb diggety that someone has actually done this conversion, and I would really like to learn more about it.

On the issue of the tranny, have you thought of robbing the 4 speed manual out of a 240. I know there are members on this board who have done that with some degree of success. It might simplify things a little and give you more control.