Took the V8 FUSO for a spin

[lanceatm]

I don't think that free-wheeling or 4x4 capability is the issue. The fact that you have added a front axle, a transfer case, cross members, etc., means that weight/class have changed and that the vehicle is now noticeably different from when it was emissions tested and/or crash tested. Which front axle or transfer case you add, is likely, unimportant.

Lance, you mentioned that there are some improvements over the NPR gasser. I was under the impression (work truck show about a year ago) that MFTB was simply taking an FE and dropping a GM engine and trans between the rails. Is this not the case? Why would the R/P require a change?

Yes mate there is.
The Allison is a double over drive - it looks like ( don`t know for sure) the GM brain can be plugged into easily (dont need dealer) - the way the exhaust has been run is soooo much better - fit and finish - i have driven and played with them both, Fuso is better I think.
Isuzu is due for a update very soon it has been a long time, not surprised they waited to see what Fuso did.

The chassis cross members are different to accommodate fuel tank ( at the rear) that is fairly obvious, there will be much more. These chassis where made for the V8.
A two wheel truck converted to a four wheel truck is still a two wheel truck as far as insurance and finance is concerned. There is a lot more to it than shoving a front axle and transfer case, that`s the fun easy part. Cab and mounts brackets all sorts of stuff ( some times the welding ) is different depending on manufacture, i don`t think they are going to tell us. Drive them on enough corrugated ( wash board) roads and all will be revealed , just don`t expect any warranty.

Lance

 

[javajoe79]

I get it now. Nothing to prevent any number of mods though once it is sold to the customer. Some states have their DOT inspection but many don't. I won't even have to emissions test my NPR in Tennessee because it's a diesel and I can register it as an RV no problem

 

[javajoe79]

Yes mate there is.
The Allison is a double over drive - it looks like ( don`t know for sure) the GM brain can be plugged into easily (dont need dealer) - the way the exhaust has been run is soooo much better - fit and finish - i have driven and played with them both, Fuso is better I think.
Isuzu is due for a update very soon it has been a long time, not surprised they waited to see what Fuso did.

The chassis cross members are different to accommodate fuel tank ( at the rear) that is fairly obvious, there will be much more. These chassis where made for the V8.
A two wheel truck converted to a four wheel truck is still a two wheel truck as far as insurance and finance is concerned. There is a lot more to it than shoving a front axle and transfer case, that`s the fun easy part. Cab and mounts brackets all sorts of stuff ( some times the welding ) is different depending on manufacture, i don`t think they are going to tell us. Drive them on enough corrugated ( wash board) roads and all will be revealed , just don`t expect any warranty.

Lance

Yes if that engine and trans use the normal GM computers, every single aspect of how it runs and shifts can be altered. Those engines are also very turbo friendly. Double the HP, easy.

 

[lanceatm]

Yes if that engine and trans use the normal GM computers, every single aspect of how it runs and shifts can be altered. Those engines are also very turbo friendly. Double the HP, easy.

The bit we are not sure of is how high the speed bump is they put in the way of talking directly to the trucks brain box. It has "the big plug" access port same as big trucks do, it is not the FUSO port that talks to the motor. The SAM system is still intact.

 

[javajoe79]

The bit we are not sure of is how high the speed bump is they put in the way of talking directly to the trucks brain box. It has "the big plug" access port same as big trucks do, it is not the FUSO port that talks to the motor. The SAM system is still intact.

It has on OBD2 port? Then you're good to go. That talks to both the ECU and the TCM. Using HP tuners software and cable you can link up to it. The software is free but you have to buy the cable and pay per VIN.

 

[lanceatm]

It has on OBD2 port? Then you're good to go. That talks to both the ECU and the TCM. Using HP tuners software and cable you can link up to it. The software is free but you have to buy the cable and pay per VIN.

They use the round OBD found on commercial trucks, can HP tuners connect to them?

 

[javajoe79]

Looks like there is an adapter cable for that.

 

[Semiquixotic]

Higher GVWR, Higher HP, Higher Torque...what are the comparative negatives (besides 4X4 conversion)? I have to imagine the gasser is initially cheaper than the diesel and definitely easier/cheaper to maintain. This could be interesting...