I have a used 2001 3.9 manual Dakota 2wd I'm looking at its in decent shape with silver paint a standard or basic model.

So what's the good, Bad and ugly in regards to the 3.9 and manual trans haven't found out the miles yet waiting on a call back.

I'm just interested in the 3.9 and trans I know all about the other 2-nd gen Dakota problems as I own one.

Not sure I will buy it but getting some info on the 3.9 would help

Thanks

 

Bad: Plenum gasket, mileage compared to the 5.2

Good: lots of room to work with. Especially at the front... Pull the fan shroud and voila!

Ugly: not much. Kind of a dog. At least paired to a 4x4 with 31" wranglers.

 

Well I just found out it has 180K on the truck that's not to bad at all.

City use only 2wd is fine with me

A look at were I live its nice but the heat can get to ya LINK

 

looks alright. I know the 3.9 can sometimes chug with a manual at low RPM when you let the clutch out.

 

That's because you and everyone is so used to an automatic is all. I always preferred a stick but I must admit I've been thinking about going with an automatic now that I'm over 55 and have back problems the clutching can pain me at times aggravate my back.

 

My truck is a 3.9 with the NV3500 5 speed. It has been a great truck, nothing really bad about it. It has enough power and is fast enough for me. The ride is very comfortable for an extended cab pickup truck, and I have a bad back and bursitis in my left shoulder. The clutch never has been a problem for me. There is a lot of room to work under the hood and it is mostly old school and straight forward as far as repairs and maintenance go. One thing I have always liked about my truck is you don't need a degree from M.I.T. to work on it. My Haynes Book and 2001 Dodge Factory Service Manual have helped me a lot, and I have definitely received a lot of good help over the years here at DF. The only bad thing about my truck is I did not buy it new. I bought it used at Carmax on Dec. 31, 2005 with 42,000 miles on it. It now has almost 178,000 miles and has been the very best and most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.

Jimmy

 

Take a good luck at intake manifold gasket. Manifold bolts can corrode and break, leaving you with a coolant leak that is hard to find. I think they make a kit to replace all the bolts and new gasket. I had to have mine repaired....$800.

Also, if you need any sensors, buy Mopar only. Aftermarket sensors are not always to the same specs.

I really like my '97 sport. It strains a bit with the 3.9 and a heavy payload, but how often are you gonna tow that much? That's what 4th gear is for.....

 

my 01 seamed under powered. so in went 4.10 gear. its much better now. but not great for hi way use. i drive in town only and it does fine.