question(s) for the Mechanics

Even if you had to unbolt one of the side rails and cut some cross braces that would be less expensive. Get it apart clean it up and put it back together.
I just priced some of that stuff. Used 5th wheel with slider: $750'00. Buying a used 5th wheel you already have.
A new one close to $3,000.
Lots of work can come with both of those unless you find one that matches yours which is a? Simplex?

 

I believe that is an NTC. Many of those came from the factory at 400HP.
Some early model N14's were mechanical. That would be an easy swap but probably need a charge air cooler. That would be challenging.

 

I'm glad to see you're sticking with the project and your end goal. Also, thanks for the updates... it's pretty cool to watch it all come together!

I wish you the best of luck and will keep watching as the progress continues.

 

Hollands are good. You have chosen wisely.

 

If that's the original engine in the truck it should be a big cam 300 horsepower engine.

Cummins had a 400 horsepower version of that engine

The 300 horsepower engine that you have is identical to the 400. Your engine easily could be rebuilt to a 400.

If you are interested I can give you more information.

If it were me I would not mess around with used engines. Those engines now are coming out of old old trucks and even if they sound okay it's anyone's guess how much time is on it or what's what. I would buy a brand new mechanical n14 right from Cummins.

But like I said you have a very very very special engine. The inframe kit for that engine is only around $1,000.

$1,000 on a caterpillar will buy you a few Nuts and Bolts... washers will be an additional cost...

And if you really want to get across those mountains a 13-speed should be on your list.

If you decide to sell that engine let me know I may be interested.

 

Another thought is that if you're seriously willing to replace the engine you could have someone turn the engine up.

There are different ways to do that some ways are worse on the engine than others...

For example mine is a 350 big cam and mine is turned up 10%. It pulls great. I have no problems in the mountains but a 13-speed would definitely be on the agenda before more horsepower.

If you could get to 350 or so with a 13 speed it might surprise you

And if you end up having engine problems you're willing to replace the engine anyway.

Just something to think about.