Diesel Engine Swap

[Neweller]

What engines are feasible to install in a late 70s Newell? I own two Newells, one with a 6V92T and another with the Cummins 555. I would love to swap out the 555 for a newer in-line 6 cyl. diesel. I have access for a reasonable price brand to new motorhome chassis with Cummins or Cat engines. These are complete chassis for building new motorhomes. They come with all running gear and electrical components. Anyone taken on this type of swap?

[TechTalk]

Diesel powered Newells were relatively compact V6 or V8 engines until the introduction of the Series 60 Detroit Diesel in 1995. As such, these engines were considerably shorter in length, and providing room for a rear-mounted radiator. To accommodate the longer straight 6 Series 60, the radiator was moved to the side. While it would not be impossible to retrofit a more modern in-line 6 into a coach originally built with a V-type engine, the modifications required would be extensive and most likely not cost justified. A less expensive (still not "cheap") alternative would be to retrofit a max-power version of the 6V92 Detroit (used or remanufactured are the only available 6Vs). However, this would still require a significant upgrade to the cooling system as well as a higher capacity transmission if going from an engine in the 200 hp range. Perhaps a trade to a later model coach would be the most economical approach, particularly considering that the cost of an engine retrofit on an older coach would very likely not enhance the resale value nearly as much as the costs involved.