1989 Hardbody D21 VH45DE Swap Begins

[greenmachinehb1989]

Hello All,
I wanted to document the process of my swap so what better place then here. My stock VG30I will be replaced with a VH45DE. Pictures to follow.

[greenmachinehb1989]

Green machine as it sits now. Shes going up 4 inches and will be just a little be stronger when it all said and done.

[greenmachinehb1989]

Found a picture I had from 2004 floating around. From back in the day sporting 31x12.50s

[BlountNissan]

So, how is the swap going? I'm starting to research for this exact same switch. What are your plans for transmission being that it's a 4WD?

[greenmachinehb1989]

Going, family issue have took my attention away. But getting back in it soon. Brake booster has to move a little and front clip I will have to reconfigure. It definitely not a job for the weak at heart. Some cutting is required. Most major surgerys do.

[BlountNissan]

Well, best of luck to you. And I bet lots of other folks could benefit from pics as you go, especially as the truck engines age and the bodies are still in good shape. My main questions around the swap are:

1) what 5 spd transmission to use/how the gear ratios match to factory rear-end,
2) engine torque/power band matches to a truck, and
3) if the all-aluminum engine suits off-roading well (heat issues, water on an aluminum block/cracking, etc).

[AZhitman]

Can't wait to see this come together - I'm a huge VH fan!