When planning the reworking of the truck’s mechanical features, I realized that increasing torque from the powerplant more than tenfold would necessitate a powertrain that’s a little more sturdy than stock. In reality the difference won’t be that severe at first, since while I’m increasing torque from the motor, I’m also ditching the transmission. If/when I do upgrade to a transmission later on however, I’d like the rest of the driveline to be ready for it.

Still even as-is, the motor by itself will be producing more than double the maximum torque of the original engine in first gear, and critically, will be capable of applying that torque instantly. We can’t expect the little stock rear end to handle that kind of shock, so today I’ll introduce to you the first part of its replacement.

This is the Fab9 housing from Chris Alston Chassisworks, custom-cut and welded to my truck’s dimensions by Dutchman Motorsports. CAC claims It’s stronger and lighter than the standard housing it’s based on, which is for the “Ford 9-inch” rear end. Why Ford parts?

Well first of all, there won’t actually be any parts made by Ford under the Ohmbre. These days, “Ford 9-inch” refers to the specifications and dimensions of the original Ford design; all the parts including this one are actually made by other manufacturers. (For those with time to burn, check this article for more information than any human being should be allowed to know about the history and variations of the Ford 9″ rear end.)

Second, starting with an Isuzu pickup made almost entirely from GM S-10 parts, I have no qualms with a little Ford thrown in the mix.

I can’t wait until the day when I get to finally mount this thing under the back of the truck. That day is unfortunately several months from now, as much of the rear frame needs to be redesigned for changes to the suspension — a topic for another post.

Link to today’s part.