I have to replace my engine and a friend has a 5.9 out of a 98 ram, I was told I can only use another 02 or 03 engine because of the reluctor ring. But I also seen that that change didn't go into effect until the half year in 02, I did look at the plugs on the passenger side fender well and I have the 3 plug-in controller. Can anyone help in determining if the 98 engine will work with my 02? Thanks

 

What are we talking about? A Ram or a Dakota or what? Help us out here....

 

A1998 ram 5.9 going into a 2002 Dakota

 

On the 5.9 the crank position sensor is external to the engine and reads off of the flex plate.
Just use your 2002 flex plate.

It's the 4.7 that gets you in trouble - sometimes.