I can't really tell how bad the damage is to the frame, which would be the final nail in the coffin, so to speak. I would be 100% willing to get a new {"new"} engine and transmission. The issue is, I was told by the trusted mechanic who works on it, I would need an engine/transmission that is compatible with the 4x4 suspension, even though it doesn't have 4x4 anymore.

 

I will be on the lookout for another model around the same years. We will see how much a Salvage Yard would want for it. I have photos of some of the damage, but they won't upload. Would my engine and transmission work like that when I transfer to another vehicle? With the 4x4 issue I was told about, both parts may not work in a normal 2wd Durango. From what I understood from the conversation.

 

The basic engine is the same regardless. There are some caveats though! On the transmission, 4X4 has a transfer case in place of the tail shaft. I suppose you could use the transfer case and not have a front drive shaft. It might be handy to have high and low range in 2wd. As to the engine, I've run into trouble with the oil pan. I got a Plymouth Trailduster once that had an engine noise. The engine had a center sump oil pan that had been beat in with a hammer. I replaced it with a rear sump pan and oil pickup.

 

I have a repair manual for 1st Gen Durangos. Do you think that would help me figure out what parts go where and what would work if I need to change it? Ironically, I needed to replace the Transfer Case on mine because it was causing Death Wobble issues.

 

I don't do much suspension work but I don't think I've ever seen the transfer case cause death wobble. That's usually worn or misaligned steering components.

 

As said, T-case won't cause that. That loose steering parts. DW also isn't really that common on independent suspension trucks.......

 

The suspension is the weakest part of the vehicle, outside of the rust issue. It began stalling a couple of weeks ago, and I took it in. Something about a part connected to the distributor cap, so both were replaced. Hasn't stalled yet. Thank you for the help and advice.

And thanks to HeyYou as well.