Hey guys, I'm somewhat new to 2nd gens, looking at buying one. Was the 5.9 ever offered factory with a 5spd? I was under the impression that the 5.9 was an auto only option? Just want to make sure I'm not buying a 5.9 swapped in front of a v6 5spd that can't handle it.

 

I dont think the 5.9 was offered in any dakota other then the RT which was automatic and 2wd...... But I could be wrong....
In 99 and earlier, the easiest way to check, is look at the transmission. If the bell housing is part of the trans. its a NV3500.... If the bell housing is seperate, its a AX15 or NV2500.
Oh, and FWIW, even the NV3500 was never used with a 5.9, only 4.7 and 5.2.

If I am wrong, hopefully someone will correct me!!

 

yep, 5.9 is auto only.

If it's a 6 speed, it's a viper T-56 swap from Gerko Conversions.

5 speed, see Ragtops comments above.

 

Yep, that's what I thought. While finding a factory 5.2 4x4 5spd would be freaking awesome, it just smelled fishy when they said it's a 5.9. I asked them for the VIN to pull the build sheet, but I'm guessing I'll hear crickets from that request...

Edit: lol they deleted the listing after I asked for the VIN. Settles that one I guess.

 

That's funny! Probably a badged and stickered 5.2 trying to make money saying its a 5.9

 

Look on the side of the block, it will tell you what size it is.

 

Also - it would not be inconceivable for somebody to 5.9 swap a 5.2/MT truck.