3.9 with 5 speed?
#1
07-21-2018, 11:42 PM
3.9 with 5 speed?
I am going to look at a 98 Dakota 4x4 with the 3.9 v6 and 5 speed transmission 164,000 miles. If I get it I will be using it to go back and forth to work and haul tools and supplies for doing side jobs (I am an HVAC tech, mechanic and electrician). Does the 3.9 with the 5 speed have a good amount of power, and how reliable is that combo? From the pictures the body looks like its in great shape with very little rust. Also was manual shift 4x4 an option or where they all electronic shift?
Last edited by 00t444e; 02-27-2022 at 12:39 PM.
#2
07-22-2018, 09:11 AM
#3
07-22-2018, 10:05 AM
#5
07-24-2018, 04:55 PM
It should be a good one. I had a '99 that would get almost 20mpg when new. It dropped to around 15mpg over the years but a good thorough tune-up would probably have restored some of that. I opted to drop a 4bt in it instead. It wasn't a speed wagon with the V6, but it was reliable. I never had to address any engine issues other than routine maintenance in 150k miles. For $1000 I'd say you did well. Ball joints were an issue in the 4wd and I had to replace one hub. Mine was in WV so there is some rust underneath it but it's still holding up well, for a 20-year old truck.
Good luck with it!
Good luck with it!
#6
07-24-2018, 07:58 PM
The body is in great shape, no rust on the bottom of the doors or rockers, bed looks good too, very surprising for a 20 year old Southern OH truck. The paint isn't the best it looks like someone rattle canned it without sanding it first, so it's peeling off in a few places, I think I will do a Rustoleum, spray job on it.