Just curious if anyone knows the facts about what's needed for the swap? I've read a lot of post but they jump around way to much. Just want simple questions answered like motor mounts...will a magnum v8 bolt up to the v6 mounts or do you just need to buy the 2 motor mounts? And the automatic on the v6...will it work with the 5.2L or 5.9L?

Thanks guys

 

There's at least one thread where a gent did it with a carbed, v-belted Magnum; if you're using the serp belt version, or if you're grafting on the 91-96 front, then you can use the factory mounts for the 2WD and the automatic will work for a while. Depends on how much you use the extra torque the 5.2/5.9 have over the 3.9, anyway.

RwP

 

The trucks a 10/88 / 89 Dodge Dakota Sport single cab short w/v6 auto 4x4......

its a 4wd model not a 2wd setup.

 

That makes it bit more difficult. They SHOULD fit, but they changed from 1990 to 1991; so it's hard to tell since there wasn't a 4x4 Shelby.

That makes it a bit more difficult, since all the posts I've seen that were done were all 2WD.

RwP

 

Well dam that freakin sux....all I know is it's still in good condition and I want to save the truck I don't want to throw a **** load of money at the V6...now I'm more thinking an old school good ol chevy 350 or something.

 

Look up these 2 members, Ragged89 and Robertmee.

From these 2, you can clearly see that the V8 magnum will bolt up to the stock V6 mounts.
If you use the serpentene belt system, it will barely clear the radiator on the early 1st gen. dakotas. However, you will need to locate an electric fan in front of the radiator.

Now, looking at ragged89, that is what he did, but he eliminated the condenser to make room. I plan to do the same set up, but plan to use 2 slimline fans sandwiched between the radiator and condenser. (like the shelby dakota has)

Robertmee used the V8 magnum, but used a V-belt set up. That proved to be longer and hit the radiator. Robert choose to install the newer 92? and up front end to make room.

Myself, I plan to use the V8 magnum, with serp. drive, slimline fans, carb intake, etc.

Transmission, I have no idea on a automatic, Mine is a 5 speed NV2500 and a NP207 transfer case. I will be installing a NV3500 and a NP231.

 

There is alot to consider for that swap....I went with a carbed magnum which used an LA style water pump...so yes I had to swap to a 91 style front end which required different radiator support bumpers lights and hood.

The easiest swap would be a 5.2 magnum carb with serpentine set up. That will fit the mounts and fit inside the radiator. You could also reuse your A500 transmission flex plate and torque converter...if you go with a 5.9 that's an externally balanced engine and requires a different flexplate setup.

You'll have to decide what to do with the computer...keep it or toss it. It controls cruise, fuel and ignition and AC. I tossed mine.

You'll have to reengineer the kickdown linkage...bracket won't work on v8 magnum intake. I went with the Lokar throttle and kickdown cables...very easy to install and looks great.