I have a 97 dakota sport 4x4 with the 318 and i would like to eventually swap the front axle for a solid dana 44 if somebody has done this tips, ideas, and prices is what i am looking for, also thinking of swaping the engine for a 360 out of my brothers 98. thanks

 

Do it!

it's not as hard as you would think especially if you do leaf springs. or a radius arm style.

cost is around 5-6k including everything and doing the labour yourself

I wouldn't mess around with a 44 unless you are running 35" or smaller tires! cheers. pm if you need anything.

 

Im sure varsis can tell you anything you want to know about it he is running around in a sweet lifted truck. He also did a swap from 3.9 to 5.9. Which doing a 5.2 to 5.9 swap is easier than a 3.9 swap