M37 build from scratch

[Turbothis]

morning fellas!
ill keep it simple

i have machine/fab shop to build pretty much anything
i have grand Cherokee with 1 ton drivetrain i would like to put in something more special and tough
M37 stuff is expensive and tends to be rusted or missing!
i built some little jeep karts with pretty much no sheet tools so this will be pretty fun to use my new tools

what i have so far.......
my base is a 87 f150 frame and power steering box with a TITLE
i got a descent trail blazer middle row seat to use for a couple reasons. folding and goes flat too
all Cherokee drivetrain. 1 tons, lockers, 5.43 gears turbo I-6 w/ 6 speed fully semi automatic trans ect ect....

pic dump for attention

[Cal_Gary]

HI Turbo and welcome! You've done some nice work there; we'd love to see you scratch-build an M37!
Keep us posted!
Gary

[John Mc]

Impressive work!

[Turbothis]

cool,
i got a factory hood coming off ebay
that is likely to be the only dodge part

i was thinking of using some semi truck doors
this would get me some modern features and be rust free?
cool rivet pattern and close to correct shape. the windshield would have the same rake angle though

[Turbothis]

i run a chevy 05 trailblazer 4.2l with a 72mm turbo
i am a huge fan of the 6 speed 6R80/HP26 trans and used one on this
the jeep was a tight fit so i think i can make some more room in the new rig

[Turbothis]

the only hood i found online off ebay

[Turbothis]

i built my baja style truck cab using all new tube and sheet skin. this will be the same style...

[Turbothis]

frame cleaned up



14 bolt rolled under



machined up some new lower link mounts

[Turbothis]

new crossmembers in
3 link for the rear almost done
motor position set
time to roll in the front axle

[Cal_Gary]

Good golly you don't waste any time, do you? Impressive work!
Gary

[Turbothis]

ya, needs to get done! lol

[Turbothis]

[Turbothis]

some pics of progress
my custom 25 gallon tank fits but just barely!



i plan on making the roof skin about 2" under the cage top so i have a structural roof rack to haul stuff





need to move the radiator/intercooler cross member up about 3"

[Turbothis]

used the metal brake some for the inner fender walls









also got the drivers side rock slider step thingy skinned in .085" diamond plate

[Turbothis]

also got the radiator/intercooler cross member welded in 3" higher