OK, so being a mopar muscle car guy who has sold all of his cars, Im now trying to build a new home/ ranch and I am adding to that this pile of parts.

Its a 49 Studebaker short bed with a title. I bought a different truck last year, which I sold because it had no title. This pile was cheap but perfect for me because I have a running 1992 Dakota Magnum.

Im trying to learn so I have questions.

I want to use the Dakota firewall or at the very least the electronics in some fashion, the A.C which currently works ect. I know some conversions use the stock firewall and other use the newer vehicle.

My goal is a daily driver thats affordable. I plan on using this dakota 318 until there is some sort of issue.

I dont have a different trans or rear end but I would like to use some nice new Torque thrust rims and Tires that I already own. these are 5 x 4.5. So I think I can change things up front for that but may need a new rear end for the rims as these are six lug.

Also Im not looking for air bags or crazy low, but I will want it lower.

Im also looking for the best way to cut and shorten the frame.


This will be a lengthy project but it will stay relatively inexpensive.

Looking for advise or any foreseeable issues.

Dave