Gear Tickler: My Scout II’s Drivetrain Confessions -

A truck’s drivetrain is the system that transmits power from the engine to the wheels, enabling the vehicle to move. Here are the main components of my drivetrain.

Engine: The power source that generates the mechanical energy needed to drive the truck. It burns fuel to produce rotational force (torque).
Transmission: This component adjusts the engine’s power and torque to suit driving conditions. It can be manual (with a clutch) or automatic, allowing the driver to shift gears and control speed and power delivery.
Clutch (in manual transmissions): Connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission, allowing the driver to shift gears smoothly by temporarily interrupting power flow.
Driveshaft (or Propeller Shaft): A long tube that transfers rotational power from the transmission (or transfer case in 4WD/AWD trucks) to the differential. Larger trucks may consist of multiple sections with universal joints.
Differential: A gear arrangement that splits the torque between the wheels, allowing them to rotate at different speeds (especially when turning). It’s located in the axle assembly.
Axles: These shafts connect the differential to the wheels, transmitting power and supporting the truck’s weight. Trucks often have a solid rear axle; some may have dual rear axles for heavy-duty applications.
Transfer Case (in 4WD or AWD trucks): Distributes power from the transmission to both the front and rear axles, enabling all-wheel drive functionality.
Universal Joints (U-Joints): Flexible joints in the driveshaft that allow it to move up and down with the suspension while still transmitting power.
Wheels and Tires: The final point of the drivetrain, where power is applied to the ground to move the truck.

Depending on the truck’s purpose, additional components like inter-axle differentials (for tandem axle setups) or power take-off (PTO) units (for auxiliary equipment) might also be part of the drivetrain system in heavy-duty trucks.

Each component works together to convert the engine’s energy into motion, tailored to the truck’s load, terrain, and driving conditions. Let me know if you’d like a deeper dive into any of these!

My Engine:

Small Block Chevy 350 – Casting 3970010 – 1969-1980

Of course, I am going to bathe the engine. (CLICK HERE) I just haven’t gotten that far yet. Please share your best tips on cleaning the engine and engine bay in the comments below.

My Intake Manifold:

An Edelbrock Airgap intake manifold was added when the 350 was dropped into My Scout II. I reckon…. Since I wasn’t there, I am not 100% sure.

My Tranny:

727 Torque Flite 3-Speed Automatic was the original MOPAR Transmission in my 1972 Scout from what I can discern. I am prepping to have this thing rebuilt to keep me from crying when it happens.

My Shaft:

He said, “Shaft”. He he.

My Differential/Axle:

When my rear end crapped out….. You remember? Right?? I decided to grab a beefier 3:73 differential with disc brakes. 8.5 Ring Gear, USA mad castings, set 20 wheel bearings, 30 spline chromoly shafts, and stock lug pattern 5×5.5.

My Wheels:

I am sticking with the original rims here. (New Link) I am just having them painted and putting on some 33-inch BF Goodwrench All Terrain towers.

My Transfer Case:

Dana 20 – More to come.

My Universal Joints: