Just bought an 01 Dakota Sport4x4 3.9 a month ago, been under the hood more than behind the wheel and going broke! I am having nothing but issues with this truck...dumped 1000. in her already. New A/C compressor, IAC, TPS, tuneup, oil change, battery etc.

The engine has developed a misfire cyl 2 cant find out why or from where, done all the basic troubleshooting and now I have a low end knock! I am considering a swap out to a 5.2 or possibly a Jeep HO but may just do another 3.9 for cost reasons. I may just get it fixed and sell it, not a happy first time Mopar owner! I was hoping someone here could assist or give their thoughts opinions and advice?

I have been on Durango-Dakota forum as well with no real luck.

Thanks!

J.R.

 

hows the compression are you consuming a lot of oil, you can't throw an HO in there with out doing alot more work you would need a new wiring harnes trans mounts possibly transfer case computer exhaust. the 3.9 would be the cheapest and it isn't a bad motor

 

Man I know how you feel.I have had my fair share of vehicles that were rolling problems.

 

it just sounds like normal maintenance to me. it is the joys of owning and older vehicle.

 

Yes I hear you on the HO. I would really like to go V8 though as I am hearing it isnt more involved than a 3.9 swap. I may have to go with a used 3.9 due to this being my daily driver, I am lost without it!

Does anyone know of any reputable engine re-manufacturers they can recommend? I would rather go rebuilt with some kind of warranty or at least be able to see and hear a running 3.9 before I dive in.

TIA!

 

you could probably put a 5.2 or 5.9 in there if you have a manual you would be fine with the trans but the 42 re wont hold up long under the 5.2 let alone the 5.9. If you put one of those in there i think others have spliced in the two extra injectors and you would need a new computer

 

I would be getting the 5.2 WITH the transmission, harness and PCM.