I'm thinking about buying a1998 Dakota SLT 2wd with a bad 3.9 in it. Can get it for the right money and it only has 66,000 miles on it. Where is the best place to get a crate 3.9? If I can get the truck for $2000, is it worth putting a new engine in?

 

To me? No.

 

Not this week. A $2K truck and a crate engine will give you a truck that will cost you at least $4K probably more. Check out the prices of Dakotas on the market and you'll find a number of surprises. I myself am selling an '01 with 72K 4X4 in need of a paint job (peeling clear coat). Currently asking $5500. Original owner interior is good condition and very little blistering over the rear wheels.

If you already had an engine, then the price "might" be worth it, but at $2K for a 2 wheel Dakota I kind of question the logic.

 

Do you know what's wrong with the 3.9 that's in it? I sorta like this year myself, owned since new. Easy engine to work on, all cast, a real workhorse. Have you thought about a used engine being it's a 98?

 

Cracked head. Chunk out of the #2 piston. I could go with a used engine, but I'm looking for something that's going to last. I've ran into a little extra cash and the truck itself is in great condition. Is $4,000 too much total to invest?

 

thats a question only you can answer. Is it worth that much to you?

 

I say go for a used engine and go from that then see if you want to keep it thats if you do the work around 1K max.

 

I'd say buy it for $800 and swap a junkyard 5.9 into it....

 

Obviously lot's of options. FYI, I have a few heads laying around for a 3.9 magnum if that's what you have. About 100K on the heads, I have no need for them really and willing to give you one if want to pay for shipping. I don't know how you feel about replacing the bad piston but that's up to you. I guess it all depends on how much more damage there is on the engine or if you even feel like tackling a job such as that. Maybe an engine shop can do it for you? Good Luck and just PM me if your interested in the head.

 

From what I've read, I think I'm going to pick up a 5.9. Quick questions. Will the stock auto tranny and rear end work with the 5.9? Will the electrical harness have to be updated?