So late this year, early next year I'm planning on swapping the 3.9 v6 out of my 96 Dakota and putting one of the motors listed in it. From what I've read the two are very similar, the 360 having more horsepower of course. I'm leaning towards the 318 but I'm looking for some input, maybe even a run down on the specs of both motors.

 

I would say it depends n your intended use. I'm leaning toward a 318 just because it likely adequate for what you need it for. my 92 318 with 142k auto CC 4x4 has pleanty of power to tow my little boat. If your looking to do a swap just for towing/hauling something specific mabye some specs would help out in a decision.

 

Yes it depends on what you want out of it. And how much you want to spend. 5.2s are more widely available. The 5.2 will have better MPG than the 5.9. But only a little bit more. But if you do the 5.2 eventually you will want to upgrade again.

So might as well go big or go home. Plenty more torque an HP than the 5.2. But 5.9's are not as easy to find as the 5.2's. Not great MPG. But not as bad as you would think. 12city 15hwy.

 

I'm not looking to tow, I just need a little more power in my truck than the 3.9 offers. Price doesn't really matter. I'm willing to spend as much as I need, no budget. I was planning on tweaking which engine I got by little aftermarket mods here and there for additional power. My dad has a ram with a 360 in it and I've drove it a lot. That being said how much less power can I expect from the 318? If it isn't a considerable amount I'm ok with that. My intentions are just to fix this truck up, better motor, new interior, new paint and tweak the engine. My plan is to do that now while I can so if down the road I need to sell it for whatever reason I can get a little extra money and I want a nice looking ride. Anyways I do drive quite a bit and I know that my dads ram is a gas guzzler. Though his is raised and heavier than my Dakota so I'm sure that attributes some decrease in gas mileage. So anyways sorry if I got off track I'm up late.

 

moneys no object hey?????


in that case turbo the v6 and you will get the best of both worlds. when your cruising stay off the go pedal and when you wanna have some fun spool it up!


on a more serious note if your really want to go with the 5.9 go with it. budget is open. if you were trying to do this and keep it on the cheap i'd say the 5.2 is a great bang for your buck option.

360 will give you more power in the long run and if your already talking about tweaking it before it goes in chances are your gonna be looking for a few extra ponies once its in.

 

That's a very good possiblity that I may want more if I choose the 318 after its all said and done. I wish I knew someone who had a 318 in one of their vehicles and was able drive it. Then I would know which I'd prefer. I initally was leaning towards the 318 but I'm starting to turn towards the 360. Well its gonna be a while before I'm gonna get the money so ill have that to time re think everything again. I'm sure that which ever I choose I won't be disappointed, may want more but will probably be satisfied. Hopefully within the next two years ill have everything done I can possible do to it and will be proud of my truck. Anyways thanks for your help guys.

 

Oh yea one more question. What years on the motors will fit in my Dakota?

 

5.2 92-02 5.9 93-02 Ram, Dakota, Van, Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee.

 

If you find a 318, go with it.. its what 30hp difference max?. 318 Is easier to come by., and 318 are a very very strong motor!, if your looking for 360 and cant find one right away.. just go with the 318 They still have plenty of power, and when you want more.. do a few upgrades to it!

 

Ok thanks you guys