After reading around the forums for some ideas regarding engine upgrades/modifications, it seems that most of them are quite old and parts/photos/references are out of date.

I've got a 93 Dakota with a V8 and was curious as to what modifications people would recommend for the engine, primarily for improving general performance and longevity.

 

Being a 93, hence: OBDI, you are limited in just how far you can go. The PCM isn't programmable, and there isn't anyone out there anymore that will do custom tunes for them. But, things like better intake (though choices are severely limited), headers, roller rockers, are out there. You can boost power a bit, but, it won't make any difference on longevity.

 

I thought a tune would be out of the question with OBDI...that's okay though.

I do need to upgrade and fix the exhaust system. It's an old patch job from when I first bought it. Also planning on upgrading the suspension and potentially lifting the truck a little bit.

Probably also need to get some better plugs/plug wires just to clean everything up. As the snow starts to melt, will have more time to put into the truck.

 

Stick with standard copper plugs. These trucks really don't like the rare-earth high-zoot fellers.

 

Any suggestions on best way of giving the truck some height? Some people say blocks, some say to crank the torsion bars. The FAQ postings are a little out of date so some of the products/guides aren't going to be too helpful there.

 

Can't crank the torsion bars too much, or the ball joints start to bind. (then break.... no fun at all.) 2" *should* be safe. For certain values thereof......

On the rear, I am just not a fan of blocks. Different springs, or maybe a shackle flip?

There just isn't much out there in the aftermarket for these trucks as there used to be.

 

I'm leaning towards replacing the springs entirely

I really appreciate the responses, thank you! The guides in the FAQ are helpful besides the images lost in the posts. I'll have to see if there are other videos/guides available.