SWB 904 to 727 driveshaft donors or ?

Putting a 727 out of a 78 LRE into my 1985 D150 SWB. Are there any trucks or vans to keep an eye out for in the junk yards that would fit?
This is a very low budget deal. Would it be cheaper/ easier to have mine shortened or just buy one? Never had to get any driveshaft work, so I am clueless as to price.

Looking to throw a fresh 318 with a 268/ 272 Purple Shaft cam, either a Performer or Stealth intake, headers, and a 600cfm Edelbrock carb. I would also like to drop it a couple inches. Not lowrider, more like biker low. I welcome any suggestions on those plans while you're at it.
Not going full on hot rod, just a fun cruiser and maybe tow my Duster 6 or 8 times a year.

A 78 LRE and an 85 swb D150 should be the same frame. What trans does the 85 have in it now? The rear axle in your truck could make a difference as well.

If the 85 currently has a 727, or a 4 speed OD, the current drive shaft should work. If the LRE driveshaft is available, it would also work, provided your truck is a standard cab with a 9 1/4 rear axle. All you need is a driveshaft from a short box truck, with the same cab and the same rear axle as yours that has a 727, built between 73 and 93.

As far as the motor work, the same things done with an LA 360 will net more power then the 318 will. Gene

Maybe I wasn't clear. Truck had 318 with a 904 and 9-1/4 rear. Swapping in another 318 I have ready to go with a 727.


Anyone know the driveshaft length with this combo?


Trying to get an idea what else might have the correct size besides SWB Pickups which are fairly rare in junkyards in Texas.
Ramcharger is same wheelbase? Vans?

My memory tells me a 727 is 3" longer then a 904. You will need a driveshaft 3" shorter then the one you currently have. Be sure you measure the junk yard driveshafts the same way you measure yours. Gene

The Ramcharger has a shorter wheel base than a D150. I'm fairly certain the driveshafts will not swap.

I think there was a car that had a drive shaft that will bolt into your truck. I can NOT recall which model year or which car it was now. It may be a Crown Victoria drive shaft. If so, a conversion U-joints may be needed to install the Dodge yokes. Unfortunately, I just can't remember. Perhaps someone else will know.

You could also have the current driveshaft shortened. I believe that will be cheaper than having one custom built for your application. Call your local driveline shop and ask what they charge to shorten a driveshaft. Prices vary in different locations.

I had the driveshaft shop in Tulsa shorten mine. If I recall correctly it was $138 and that was with two new U-joints. It took then about half an hour to do.