Model Code: RN48D

Engine

  • 2.4 L (2366 cc) 22R Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) I4, 97 hp or 98 PferdStarke (PS) where PS=0.986xhp (72 kW) at 4,800 rpm and 175 N·m (129 lb·ft) of torque at 2800 rpm

 
Transmission

  • According to the VIN plate the truck came with a L52 5-speed transmission but when I got her she had 4-speed. I’m assuming it was as L45.

 
Transfer Case

  • Type 1-B Carb 4Cyl (based on Transfer Case Identification from Marlin Crawler)
    • Installed 1981 – 4/1983
    • Top Shift
    • Short Style Case
    • Short Low Range Shift Rod
    • C-Clip Retained 2WD/4WD Rod
    • 8mm Flange Bolts
    • Noisey Style Gears
    • 21 Spline Input
    • 27 Spline Outputs

 
Differential Gear Ratio

  • From what I have read online, 1981 was the only year the gears were 3.90 which might help explain why the truck was so under powered.  Unfortunately I did not verify this when I had the differentials regeared. If it was 3.90 I’m going to be revving a little high compared to factory specifications even with 32″ tires.
  • Updated during remodel:
    • 4.56 – Eaton Truetrac in back, open in front

 
Wheels and Tires

  • 15×5″ 1/2-JJ rims from door plate
    • Center Bore: 106.1mm
    • Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD): 6 x 139.7mm (6 x 5.5″)
    • Lug nut thread size: M12 x 1.5
  • H78-15 tires = 225/75-15 tires (diameter: 28.29”, width: 8.86”, circumference: 88.87”, sidewall height: 6.64”)
  • When I bought the truck the original wheels and tires had been changed to
    • 15×8″ rims with 33″ tires
    • The rims were 8 spoke steel with chrome finish and had about 3.5″ of back spacking
    • At the time I replaced the 33″ tires with 31 x 10.5″ BF Goodrich All Terrain tires
  • Updated during remodel:
    • 16×7″ 8 spoke steel chrome rims
    • 265-75 R16 BF Goodrich T/A KO2 tires

 
Body

  • Regular Cab 2 door pickup
  • Deluxe Long Bed 4WD trim level
Removing the Engine
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