I have a 1996 2wd v6 manual trans Dakota.

A little backstory-
One of my freeze plugs behind the transmission has decided to delete itself and it's puking coolant. I've already had the transmission off once and I'm really not wanting to do it again. All that work for no real gain. So what I would really like to do is just delete on the V6 and throw in a V8 so I actually get some gains.

My questions-
I found a 1998 dodge 1500 4x4 for parts with a good 318 engine and manual transmission. (I assume the nv3500) Would I be able to drop that into my Dakota. Or would it be extra difficult? Will the 4x4 be an issue or can I pull off the transfer case? I'm aware the 5.9 fits as well but I want to keep it factory. I know the AX15 in my truck isn't the strongest trans so I don't know if it will stand the v8. My truck already has the 8.25 rear end as a factory option so I don't need to worry about that.

Thanks for any help.

 

Don't think the 4x4 trans will work in a 2wd.... Not sure if you can just replace the part the t-case bolts to with a 2wd housing, or even if the output shaft is compatible.

You will need to add the wires to your existing harness for the two additional fuel injectors.... and have your PCM flashed for the larger motor.

 

I figured the 4x4 trans wouldn't work but thought I'd ask. Anyone have experience with the AX15 behind the v8?

Couldn't I just use the PCM and wiring harness out of the donor truck?

 

I have the AX-15 4x4 behind a 5.9 from a '97 Ram in my '93 Dakota (originally a V6). OBD1 electronics and a intake manifold both from a '94 5.2 auto. Park safety wire grounded to the bulkhead. No mods to the engine. It's holding up just fine but the truck isn't beat on hard. Just a runabout that pulls a utility trailer time to time. If you're hammering on it or towing a lot I'd have a backup plan if/when the AX-15 grenades itself. It'll hold up to the 5.2 a bit longer than the 5.9 I'm sure....

 

PCM and wiring out of the donor is doable but at that point it's a conversion, far from a plug and play. Much easier to adapt your existing PCM. Buttttt if you want OBD2 and a project....you can do it...