kmjone00
Dodge Dakota
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3/20/2005
20:38:15
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 Subject: V-6 to V-8 swap for a '00
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Message:
I assume this question is asked frequently on this forum, but I’d like to ask it again anyway and would really appreciate detailed feedback. Please respond if you have any worthwhile information.
My question:
Is it feasible to swap out a 3.9L V-6 for one of the V-8s, particularly the 4.7 or 5.2?
Info about my situation (if you have the patience and interest to read):
I have a 2000 Regular Cab with the V-6 and a 5-spd. I HATE my V-6. Specifically, I have a problem with it failing to decelerate between shifts. Dodge could not fix this problem after several attempts while it was still under warranty (see old “Possessed V-6!” posting, http://www.dodgedakota.net/boards/v6/10833.html). I wish I had bought a truck with the V-8 from the factory, but it’s too late now. I’ve had my truck since it was brand new (since I was 17 years old) and it’s in perfect condition with 80,000 miles on it. I can’t afford to buy another one and don’t want some used and abused piece of s#@t just to get a bigger motor. I intend to run the wheels off my well-taken-care-of truck—I just want a V-8 it in. I hope to wear my V-6 out and replace it when it’s time for major repairs.
I can make some common-sense assumptions, and have a fair amount of mechanical knowledge, but I’m no certified mechanic and I don’t know a lot of sure facts about such a job. I know my motor is a 5.2 minus two cylinders. So I assume the 5.2 is the easier replacement. But I gather that the 4.7 is a lighter, leaner, more modern and more efficient engine with similar output. Does anyone have advice about which to choose? I assume I could find a decent motor in a used truck, perhaps in a totaled ’03 or ‘04, and I could rebuild it (with help from mechanically-inclined family and friends) with performance modifications (such as the HO cams I keep reading about on this forum). Would this be a good route for getting a motor, or am I asking for problems? Are my existing motor mounts okay or does a V-8 frame have a different cross-member with different mounts? I assume I could use the V-8 accessories (power steering pump, AC compressor, alternator, etc.) off of whatever engine I find, and I assume I’d have to use the V-8 PCM. Am I assuming right? Will the V-8 PCM work with my Power Distribution Center (relays, etc.). I assume I would have to have a V-8 fan shroud, but do I need to get a V-8 radiator as well or could I use mine? Would I need to get a different transmission, flywheel and clutch? What kind of cost am I looking at here?
I’m a lot of money and miles from making this idea a reality. But I want to gather as much info as possible. Thanks so much for taking the time to read and respond.
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