Just bought my first Jeep... few questions

[Mutt]

Hey All,

I just bought my first Jeep tonight and have some questions. It's a 1987 Grand Wagoneer. I just swapped a Cummins 4BT into a 1967 Bronco and love it due to the power and 30 mpg I'm getting now. I plan to do the same with the Grand Wagoneer. I already have the Cummins and an NV4500 tranny, but am undecided on the t-case.

I went to pick up the Jeep tonight and the weather here is simply not cooperating (Colorado). Here are my questions. What is up with the front axle? It appears to be a Dana 44 driver side drop, but I'm unsure and know NOTHING about Jeeps. This is sort of a crash course education for me. Also, there seems to be a shortage of FSJ forums out there that are actually helpful. This one appears to be one of the better ones I've found.

I'm just looking for some info about the Axle setup. It appears to have auto locking hubs because there is no selector on the outer hubs. Is this right? Are they full time engaged, or is there some sort of vacumn controller on the axle? (It was dark, muddy, and two front flat tires... no way I could see) Can this axle be converted to selectable hubs like the Chevy and Ford Dana 44's?

That's pretty much it for the questions. Does anybody know of a Waggy that has been converted to a diesel before? I would appreciate any links you guys can provide. From what I understand, the AMC 360 weighs 580 pounds, which is 100 pounds lighter than the Cummins. Do you guys have a suggestion for custom springs, or do you think they are necessary. I want 4" of lift and 32" tires.

Sorry to sound like such a newby, but .... well... I am.

My purchase was a '87 GW completely rust free. Everything works including power windows, power seats, ac, etc. The engine knocks because it was starved of oil on a boat ramp (this is why he sold it).

I got it for $500. Seemed like a fair price. Comments?

Thanks, and a pleasure to meet you all...

Jim