[align=right]Post #1[/align] I want to swap the 3.9 out of my truck. I know it would probably be more cost efficiant to trade in my truck and get a v8, but It was a gift from my stepdad for my birthday, and I don't want to be ungrateful. I'm happy for what i've got, but It seems pretty realistic to swap in a v8 since I'm going to have the truck for a while

So, to start off. I plan on getting everything I can from junkyards. How much would you estimate a low mileage 5.9 would cost me?

How easily will it bolt in place of the 3.9? What will need to be replaced?

I recently did an engine swap with my uncle, not on a dakota though, so I know a little bit about what to expect. However, I'm just not sure what I can use from my old engine and what might need to be replaced.

Is the wiring harness the same? Or do i need a new one
How about PCM and TCM? What about a trans? I think it will bolt right up, but mine probably wont hold with the extra power. Should I get a new transmission too? I can get that from a junkyard too, right? About how much am i talking?

Assuming me, my buddy and my uncle do the labor, so thats no charge.. How much am I looking at here? For a relatively low milage engine, but keep in mind that Im not made of money.

Thanks![/align]

 

here ya go, enegine, engine mounts, transmission for the 5.9, the 42re paired up to the 3.9 will roast like a marshmellow in a fire pit if connected to the 5.9, then drive shaft(s, if 4x4), im assuming the axles will hold the power, your gonna need a wiring harness, ecm, tcm, , anyone feel free to correct me

 

somethings you can get from a salvage yard like body parts and save money but when it comes to mechanical and electrical part you are asking for trouble using used parts.....that is a reason they call it a "junk" yard......I would still bite the bullet and trade your truck in on what you really want instead of the swap think....just IMO you are going to have headaches.

 

I would find a wrecked dak and use it as a donor truck.


or sell your truck and buy one with a V8 (I know you didnt want to hear that, but you knew it was comming)

 

Do a search. This topic has been covered more times than I can remember.