Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
#1689522
10/23/14 01:03 AM
10/23/14 01:03 AM
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Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,373 Rancho Cucamonga, CA
D_C
OP
pro stock
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OP
pro stock
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,373
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
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Recently, I have been considering buying a Pickup Truck. I have two V8 CJ 5's Jeeps and a nice M416 Military Jeep Trailer, but at times it would be nice to drive over 55 MPH on the freeway (speed limit when towing a trailer).
Also, it would be nice to have an acceptable tow-vehicle that could manage trailers larger than my M416 Jeep trailer. Thinking about towing a car-trailer occasionally and there might be a Flat Bottom drag boat in my future.
Was considering a '72 thru '75 Dodge 4x4 PowerWagon. First, I kind of like the Fuselage styling of those years, and Second and more importantly, '75 and earlier does not require Smog Inspections, so I can add any engine or performance modifications I would want.
P.S.: I know that 4x4's are not Ideal for towing, but I figure it should still work out.
Last edited by D_C; 10/23/14 01:06 AM.
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: D_C]
#1689523
10/23/14 01:33 AM
10/23/14 01:33 AM
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,838 Freeport IL USA
poorboy
I Live Here
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I Live Here
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,838
Freeport IL USA
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The pre 74 4x4s had a closed front knuckle, I would want to stay away from those, but its easy enough to change the front axle out for a newer design, and Dodge 4x4 truck front axle up to 93 will bolt onto the 72-75 springs. You have to watch the wheel bolt pattern, there were (2) 1/2 ton versions and a 3/4 and a heavy duty 1 ton versions.
I also think I would rather have a 73 & newer truck, 72 being the 1st of the new model had a few things that fit 72 only. Other then rust (look at the frames and crossmembers where they attach at the frames), which shouldn't be much of an issue for you, they were good trucks. The 3/4 tons were better for towing or hauling heavy loads then a 1/2 ton, but many a cars were hauled around on open trailers pulled by 1/2 ton pickups. Dodge made light duty and heavy duty versions of a 1/2 ton, for your purposes, I would probably not suggest the light duty 1/2 ton truck. Gene
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: D_C]
#1689525
10/23/14 02:26 AM
10/23/14 02:26 AM
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Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,309 Laveen, Arizona
GTSDart340
pro stock
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pro stock
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,309
Laveen, Arizona
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I had a 75 W100 (technically it was a W150, as it was the heavier model) other than going through a couple master cylinders (O'Reilly remans) it was a great truck! I sold it a couple years ago and still regret it! Never towed with it though, but I hauled since pretty heavy stuff with no issues. I have a 72 D200 that is going to be the trailer puller.
1949 International KB-2 "Mater" - 302/T5
1968 Dodge Dart GTS "The Drat" - 340/727
2006 Dodge Magnum R/T - Hemi
2016 Dodge Durango Limited - 3.6
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: GTSDart340]
#1689526
10/23/14 01:48 PM
10/23/14 01:48 PM
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,024 Morningside
AdventurerSport
waaaay out there in left field
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waaaay out there in left field
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,024
Morningside
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72-74 4x4s are part-time 4wd and have front DRUM brakes, '75-79 are FULLTIME 4wd and have front DISC brakes.
'75-up much better than '72-74, newer dash, many mechanical updates as well as NP203 cast-iron Fulltime 4wd transfer case.
Good luck!
JS
76 Dodge Adventurer Sport Power Wagon W100 318, 727, NP203 Fulltime 4x4 Russet Red 06 Jeep Commander Ltd 4x4, 5.7L Hemi, QuadraDrive II 06 Chrysler 300C AWD 5.7L Hemi 10 Mopar 10 Challenger R/T, #483/500, 5.7L HEMI 10 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd 4x4 5.7L HEMI 11 Dodge Ram 1500 LoneStar Quad Cab, 5.7L HEMI, Fulltime 4x4, Deep Cherry Red 16 Jeep Cherokee Limited 3.2L Pentastar V6, 9 Speed Torqueflite, 4x4, Black
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: D_C]
#1689529
10/24/14 10:53 AM
10/24/14 10:53 AM
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 13,492 Marion, South Carolina [><]
an8sec70cuda
I Live Here
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I Live Here
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 13,492
Marion, South Carolina [><]
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O/T...welcome back! Been a long time since I've seen you post on the board.
CHIP '70 hemicuda, 575" Hemi, 727, Dana 60 '69 road runner, 440-6, 4 speed, Dana 60 '71 Demon 340, no drivetrain, on blocks behind the barn '73 Chrysler New Yorker, 440, 727, 8.75 '90 Chevy 454SS Silverado, 476" BBC, TH400, 14 bolt '06 GMC 2500HD LBZ Duramax
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: D_C]
#1689532
10/24/14 09:37 PM
10/24/14 09:37 PM
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 27,728 places
79powerwagon
Too Many Posts
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Too Many Posts
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 27,728
places
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Love these trucks! I had many of them! I'll never get another one! They will be perfectly capable of towing (two wheel or four wheel drive), but the rust is BIG on these, as is their thirst! My only one to get good mileage was my then brand new 1990 D150 V6 5 speed short box 2x4. It got an honest 24mpg day in and day out! LOVED that truck!!!! All of the rest were in the 8mpg range day in and day out. Even my 1990 Bronco 5.0 speed 4x4 got 20mpg! So did my Yukon!
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: rickstershemi]
#1689534
10/25/14 01:35 PM
10/25/14 01:35 PM
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,024 Morningside
AdventurerSport
waaaay out there in left field
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waaaay out there in left field
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,024
Morningside
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My Dad bought his 1976 W100 heavy-duty 1/2 ton brand new in December, 1975. Special order. Used on the farm from 1975 thru 2011, when Dad got sick and we ultimately lost the farm. I still have his truck (now mine). 318, 727, NP203, all original (save for basic replacement parts like starter, alternator, brakes, shocks, tires, battery, etc.). Original engine, transmission, transfer case, front and rear axle, and still pulls heavy loads VERY well! Pulled grain wagons for years with this one and still is the best puller that we EVER had on the farm! I wouldn't have anything else...and this truck is the primary reason that I'm a DODGE man!
JS
76 Dodge Adventurer Sport Power Wagon W100 318, 727, NP203 Fulltime 4x4 Russet Red 06 Jeep Commander Ltd 4x4, 5.7L Hemi, QuadraDrive II 06 Chrysler 300C AWD 5.7L Hemi 10 Mopar 10 Challenger R/T, #483/500, 5.7L HEMI 10 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd 4x4 5.7L HEMI 11 Dodge Ram 1500 LoneStar Quad Cab, 5.7L HEMI, Fulltime 4x4, Deep Cherry Red 16 Jeep Cherokee Limited 3.2L Pentastar V6, 9 Speed Torqueflite, 4x4, Black
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: I_bleed_MOPAR]
#1689536
10/25/14 07:07 PM
10/25/14 07:07 PM
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,886 Lost and Spaced
bboogieart
master
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master
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,886
Lost and Spaced
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The d-100 seventies versions are my all time favorite Dodge truck. I know you are aware the 4X4 isn't necessary. My question is why would you even consider one? Planning on some off-roading?
I have mechanical Aptitude. I can screw up anything.
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: bboogieart]
#1689537
10/27/14 04:03 AM
10/27/14 04:03 AM
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Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,373 Rancho Cucamonga, CA
D_C
OP
pro stock
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OP
pro stock
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,373
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
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Thanks all for the replies.
I guess the reason I am looking at Power Wagons/ 4WD, is that I like the Stance, and off-road capability.
Granted, I already have a '79 Jeep CJ5 with Factory AMC V8, headers, 3-inch dual exhaust, 33-inch tires, but I can't tow with it.
First off, In California, '75 and earlier vehicles are smog inspection exempt, so you can tinker a bit, swap engines, add performance parts, etc.
Actually, it's been a recent evolution; Initially, I just figured on a 2WD Dodge pickup. Then I thought 4WD would be nice too. I plan to keep my Jeep and add a Power Wagon to my stable.
I looked over a '74 W200 today. It starts/runs/drives, but is in pretty rough shape.
On balance, the W/S Wiper/Defroster cowling is missing (saw online replacement for $70). Also missing is the front right vent window, padded dash, shift knob and tailgate. The front and rear bumpers are bent-up and need straightening or replacement.
As for the body, assorted waves, dents and holes.
It has a 318, 2BBL, 4-Speed, Dana 44 and 60, 33-inch tires. Not much rust on/under it, but exterior painted with rattle-cans.The asking price is $2,500, but the owner is willing to be flexible on price.
I'm capable of fixing most everything myself, which is both a blessing and a curse. When I look at something I'm considering, I see all the possibilities, know I can fix them, but there are only so many hours in a day, and I always have way more projects than I can ever do justice to.
Last edited by D_C; 10/27/14 04:13 PM.
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: D_C]
#1689538
10/28/14 01:19 AM
10/28/14 01:19 AM
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Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,310 Walnut Creek, CA
blown340
master
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master
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,310
Walnut Creek, CA
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I like my 73 W200 alot. Personally I prefer the NP205 transfer case over the later 203 that cames on the full time trucks. Putting it in 4-lo with the front unlocked is pretty convenient for moving trailers around in tight spaces.
I really haven't had many issues with mine other than the fact that its ride is, to put it nicely, horrible. I've towed with it, remodeled my entire house with it, built my shop from the ground up with it, and winched out over 8000 sq.ft. of juniper bushes from my front yard with it and its never let me down.
-Jon
70 challenger convertible. 340/5 speed. blown, intercooled, efi, blah blah blah
71 valiant scamp 318/A833OD/AC/PS
00 dakota RC 4.7L 5 spd autoX'r. SRT10/T56 swap in process
73 W200 Power wagon, PTO winch, 4 spd
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Re: Are '72 - '75 Power Wagons Good Trucks?
[Re: D_C]
#1689540
10/28/14 11:18 PM
10/28/14 11:18 PM
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,954 Blairsden, CA
Triggerfish
top fuel
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top fuel
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,954
Blairsden, CA
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That gen Power Wagons are fantastic trucks! Aggressive looks & built like tanks. I remember fondly my 76 400 4spd PW I bought new & love the previous gen W100 I have now that has an 85 3/4 ton chassis under it. For towing, I wish I still had my 02 Cummins, but my 71 with its 383 magnum still gets the job done. Only thing you may want to consider, is these earlier gen 4x4's are leaf springs front & rear and they RIDE LIKE TRUCKS! So if you got a bad back, you may want to reconsider...lol. Also, unless its full time 4wd, it'll have locking hubs, so changing to 4WD in a snow storm may be required...
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