Topic: A few questions about the R151.

[woodsja]

I am the proud new owner of an entirely stock 1980 Pickup.  Eventually, I'd like to run a 4.3L pushing a R151 but in the mean time I'm stuck with the 20R and the L43.  I don't have the engine (and probably won't for another 4-6 of months) but I do have the trannie and tcase.  Now the question is: do I want to take the time to install the R151 now or wait till I get the engine?
I'll have to move the crossmember, and redo the drive line; but, how well does the R151 mate with the 20R?

Any help appreciated,
James

[brainlessfool]

I do belive it will bolt up, butt may have some issues with throw out bearing ect.

just wait untill you do the swap. 

[toybuilt]

  I would say wait thill you do your swap, I think that would be the best.

[Riddett]

Sounds like a great opportunity for 20R /22R Hybrid. Find an 82-84 block and get rid of the 4.3 Idea.
Those trucks are light and with the 4spd it will zip. L43 is a helluva lot shorter than the 151. I think
budbuilt and marlin have crossmember to put the longer trannies in the old HiLux