Q. Squarebody auto/203 into a 70 4x4 frame

[tutone]

Hey guys, I know it has been done but I'm asking anyway. Searched and cannot find a definite answer. I bought a t350/np203 to put in my build. Pulling a manual 4spd/np205 out. This trans came from a 79 Blazer and I got the crossmember with it. Here is the question. The 203 is married to the trans, unlike mine. Should the front driveshaft work from any squarebody? And will the crossmember set the case at the correct height in the earlier frame? Any experience in this? Thanks

[57taskforce]

What exactly are you working with? These trucks never had a divorced case from the factory.

[jjzepplin]

Why not just put the t350 on the 205? Just gotta swap out the input on the 205. Or swao the 205 for another 205 already done.

[tutone]

Originally Posted by 57taskforce

What exactly are you working with? These trucks never had a divorced case from the factory.

Ok, maybe not divorced, but it has a tailshaft that goes through the mount. I guess what I'm really asking is the COMPLETE t350 and 203 as mounted on the back of the engine going to put my driveshaft basically at the same level as it is now with the 205. To answer the other question. I have no history on this 205 but I know the history on the blazer gear. I expect drive shaft length differences going into it

[jocko]

I know you've probably heard this and don't want to hear it again - regardless of known t-case history, the 205 is gear driven and part time whereas the 203 is chain driven and full time (if it is stock). It's worth rebuilding the 205 and re-installing it with the TH350 as jjzepplin mentions above.

[tutone]

Originally Posted by jocko

I know you've probably heard this and don't want to hear it again - regardless of known t-case history, the 205 is gear driven and part time whereas the 203 is chain driven and full time (if it is stock). It's worth rebuilding the 205 and re-installing it with the TH350 as jjzepplin mentions above.

Yeah, I've had a ton of SBody 4x4s . 203s/205s/ and 208s. I agree with you guys on the 205 except the 203 I have bought is a rebuilt unit with the part time upgrade. I sold out of all my 4x4 parts years ago and really don't want to chase parts with the swap meets closed.
The parts to mate a t350 to a 205 are hard to find and expensive. Just trying to use what I have if you know what I mean. I will make it work and later if I'm not satisfied, I can go the rebuild route on a 205.

[jocko]

Completely understand!

[57taskforce]

Ok this all makes more sense now. I can’t help much on the 203 swap unfortunately as I’ve always gone the other way and gotten rid of them. I definitely understand your motives. Im sure the drive shaft lengths are probably different, the front square body shaft might do the trick if your lucky. As a side note if you decide to part with the shifters on your 465/205 combo I’d be interested in them.

[tutone]

Thanks all. I'm going to give it a whirl. Except for the 8 or so mpg, I always liked the full time 4x4s. Great winter time vehicles.

[52napco]

Dont put a 203 in anything....they are only good for a boat anchor