Dodge/Chrysler/Plymouth is famous for doing crazy stuff during transition years! Since vehicles are made in different plants, I'm sure its hard to keep them all in sync and cranking out the exact same product during the same time frames...

When I deal with the Dodge parts counter for parts for the truck, I always provide them with the VIN to ensure I get the correct parts..

 

My truck is what I consider a late 98. It was born in July, most of the time they start rolling out the new models in September.

 

When I go to the junkyard, I always make sure I get the right parts to ensure I get the correct parts.

 

Mine was built 1/96... build sheet shows 46RE.