I just picked up a new to me
1997 dakota SLT 4x4 with the 5.2 in it. It is sitting stock right now. I want to fit 33's on it. Anyone have experience with 33's on these trucks? I was thinking about doing a 3 inch torsion bar and 2 inch block lift.
Also i want to get an exhaust setup. What sounds the best on these trucks? She's all white so I'm planning on painting the bumpers and
Wheels black. Let me know what you think! I'm new to the dakotas so I need all the advice i can get!

 

With stock keys, I think the TB's can only be cranked enough to level the truck. Not sure how much new keys can get you. 32's are a tight fit at full lock, so plan on doing some trimming to make 33's happen. But they are doable.

 

To fit 33's you are gonna need at least 3in. Exhaust depends on your preference. I ran a mangaflow dual out on my 5.2. Had a nice tone to it not too loud. Then I went just running a cat and I liked it way better. I a few vids on youtube.

 

My Dakota's all white with black Plasti-dipped stock wheels. I have a Flowmaster exhaust and it sounds like a frickin race car!

 

What exhaust setup do you have? I'm thinking about gutting my cats and putting a flowmaster 40 on

 

It was installed by the PO...I'm not sure which one it is.

 

I have a 40-series Flowmaster that was installed by my local muffler shop. I still have my cat (intact) with Edelbrock shorty headers and dual tailpipes (dual outlet muffler). I think it sounds good and I get lots of compliments on the sound, too.

As far as what lift to get to fit 33s, you'll probably need to crank the torsion bars level and get a 3-inch body lift, minimum. Even with that, it may still rub when you turn, especially if you use wheels with less backspacing than stock.

 

How much did your headers and exhaust setup cost?

 

I think I paid around 200 bucks for the headers and I don't remember how much I paid for the rest of the exhaust. I think I blocked it out because it was way more than I should have paid.

 

i would do what Tom said. Just level the truck with the stock tbars and go with a 3 in body lift. I have a Flowmaster 40 with duals and 3.5" tips. Sounds really good to me. If you want pop, then go with glass packs.