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Dakota Performance
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Ry
Dodge Dakota
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6/20/2001
12:16:31

Subject: need feedback on needed mods
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I’m trying to put together a list of things I need to do in order to get my truck up to snub after going through some of the posts on this BB. Maybe you all can help me out and let me know your opinions on what brands, specs to get, etc etc….It’s a 91 V8 auto 4X4….as an fyi, it has the entire Jacobs ignition system, and an oil filter relocation unit…


1: 180 T-stat, get at speedworks (What is the stock degrees t-stat??)

2: Plug wires: Which style, make?

3: Spark Plugs: Autolite 3923’s

4: Oil Filter/Cap/Rotor/ Mopar?

5: Is there any type of cold air intake for my year? If so, can you specify one…

6: K&N Filter, given

7: The truck has 140K on it, is 10w-30 the ideal weight oil for the 5.2? Or, let me know, I’m in CA so weather is not a concern, hot at times within deserts…

8: I’m thinking going with an entire exhaust system. Mopar headers, 3” cat, and single inlet/dual outlet muffler w/ tips coming out before the rear wheel on passenger side. It’s either going to be the dynomax super turbo/or 50 series deltaflow flowmaster….don’t know quite yet…..I want it like that one guy was mentioning in the other posts, loud outside, quiet inside…=)

9: Does anyone use an electric fan(s) on their truck, rather than the old school style? If so, which ones?

10: Are the stock tranny coolers efficient enough, or should I upgrade that?

11: Are oil coolers worth it on the Dak, should I install one?

Let me know if I forgot anything….Thanks…The list keeps growing….and growing….




Manuel
Dodge Dakota
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6/20/2001
15:58:15

RE: need feedback on needed mods
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Similar questions have been asked many times including by myself. I don't feel like I'm any closer to an answer though. Does anyone have any solid numbers on hp gains by adding each accessory? I am still trying to decide what my first mod will be. I want the most possible gains for under $400.



Ry
Dodge Dakota
 Email

6/20/2001
16:27:05

RE: need feedback on needed mods
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Not only am I trying to gain a little hp, along with reliability, and extend the life of my engine and tranny, but I would like to do some preventative maintenance and make sure I use the very best parts within reason....

I don't need the the only answer, I would just like confirmation of my ideas that these things will suffice or be worthwhile....

Thanks



Kevin
Dodge Dakota
 Email

6/22/2001
09:32:54

RE: need feedback on needed mods
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Ok guys let me see if I can help you out here.
1. Go with the 180 t/stat. Stock is 195. Cooler motors produce more horsepower.
2. MSD 8.5mm. Fit great no horsepower gains.
3.Go with the 3923's. Guys say they produce more H/P. But everyone's gain is different.
4. Mopar oil filter. Accel cap and rotor
5 K&N Gen II definite horsepower gains.
7. Your oil is fine. Just keep changing it regularly.
8. Mopar or JBA headers Flowmaster or gibson for the exhaust. Folks are split down the middle on which is better. See if you can find another truck that has one installed and listen to choose the sound you like. Horsepower gains are similar.
9. I use a Perma-cool 16" electric fan in my Dak. Cools better than stock and you free up some ponies in the process.
10. Stock tranny cooler is good enough if you have the towing package on your truck. If not you may want to invest in another cooler if you are towing a lot.
11. Should not need an oil cooler unless you are racing.
It is hard to quantify horsepower gains because each truck is different, and in different states of tune. Also some combinations of aftermarket components work well and some don't. Proven horsepower gains will come from a aftermarket throttle body, Cat-back exhaust, and headers. Hi-po PCM if available for you year. Also roller rockers will net some good power gains.



Ry
Dodge Dakota
 Email

6/22/2001
10:18:01

RE: need feedback on needed mods
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Message:
Kevin, thanks for the awesome help!

A few questions...

1: What's the difference with the K&N Gen II and a regular K&N filter? And two, where should I purchase that through, (summit?)

2: I realize the oil is fine, I was trying to determine the recommended weight of oil you guys use (if other than stock weight), have an opinion on that?

3: The perma cool fan, is there one that is just for the Dak, or do you just modify it to be so? And is the 16" as big as you can go on my year (with tow pkg) without any interference?

4: You mentioned an aftermarket TB, Are there any aftermarket TB's for my truck, if so, which one, and is it CA legal? Cos' I know I have that stupid TBI now, and it doesn't have any of the perks that the magnum series have...UGH!

5: What's a High Performance PCM? Maybe I just forgot the abbreviation...

Yeah, kewl, roller rockers were going to happen, just don't know when.....

Oh, what about a mopar cam? Is there one you recommend for street, and will pass the sniffer at the smog test here in CA?

Thanks for the great help!
Ryan







Kevin
Dodge Dakota
 Email

6/22/2001
18:50:30

RE: need feedback on needed mods
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Message:
You probably will not be able to ust the K&N GenII because of the design of your throttle body. You should be able to use a 14 X 3 K&N filter with a basic chrome filter housing available from Summit or any other auto parts store.
Most guys use 10w-30, but it really depends on the climate you are in. If in Arizona possibly 10w-40. Later years 2000-2001 specify 5w-30 as proper oil. Just make sure you use a quality oil, and change it regularly. I use Castrol GTX 10w-30 myself, and when I pulled my valve covers to change to the roller rockers, everythings was very clean inside. In the past with other vehicles I had used Quaker State, and noticed more sludge build-up than with Castrol. A lot of DML guys use Mobil 1.
The 16" Perma-cool fan has the highest CFM rating. Some folks also use the Black Magic elctric fan, and report not problems in summer temps, and traffic jams. Engine stays cool. Yes there will some modifications. There is no direct bolt on electric fan. Hardest part will be removing the stock fan and clutch pulley. After that it just a matter of mounting the new, and the instructions you will get are clear enough to get you through it. If not consult the forum you will get plenty of help, or e-mail me.
Sorry about the PCM. Basically the engine computer. I notice you have a '91 so that is not an option for you only the magnum engines can be upgraded. I do not think there are any aftermarket throttle bodies for your truck. The roller rockers are an easy install. Should take about 4 hours out of a weekend.



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