i have a 1996 dakota with a 2.5L (the engine is a 97 set up, my truck was a late make in 96) and i wanna know if i can swap my engine out with a 5.9L and still use the original ecu. i also want to know if the original drive line will work if i hook up a nv3500 (replacing both my 2.5L and ax15) and still work without needing cut.

thanks guys!

 

No you can not use it. Unless you only want the V8 to run off of 4 clys. Your going to need to get a complete V8 wiring harness as well as V8 computer.

 

Like Crazy said, the 2.5L computer won't work, you will need a 5.9L computer and a 5.9L wiring harness.

As far as your driveline question goes: the question I would start with is do you have the 7-1/4" or 8-1/4" rear axle?
If you have the 7-1/4", no, I would upgrade the rear end to at least the 8-1/4" (The V6 and V8 had the 8-1/4", it was apparently an option with the I4).

As far as will the driveshaft itself fit... they list different part numbers for the AX15 and the 3500. Different part numbers for the yoke and the shaft.

 

i know i have the 8 1/4. sorry about the stupid ecu question haha, im just trying to make sure. any recommendations to where i can get an ecu for it? it has the full harness just not the brains. the engine itself is from 2001.

oh i forgot to ask. will any nv3500 (not chevy) hook up to the 5.9L or do i need to find a more specific year?