So my 99 Dodge Ram 1509 has a busted trans. So I found this 97 Dodge Ram 2500 with a jasper unit in it. Picked the whole truck up for a grand since its spray painted and interior sucks. Both trucks are 4wd. However the 99 has a 5.2 and the 97 is a 5.9 gas. I know I have all the parts to possibly do this swap. I also know I would need to get a new bed since the 6.5 bed won't fit. Any comments on how hard this swap would be or if this is to difficult to do?

 

Not sure which would be easier, cab swap, or driveline swap.... I *think* all the frame mounting points are the same..... provided both trucks are the same cab style. If not, then driveline swap is gonna be it. (plus the need for different rear driveshaft.)

 

What truck do you want as a final result? Short bed/long bed with the 5.9?

 

Well the cabs aren't the same the 97 is two door but extended and the 99 is 4 door extended. Was looking to do the 99 cab and body panels except bed on the 97 long bed chassis with the 5.9 and trans. Unless swapping the 97 trans is possible. Not sure if it's a 46re though

 

That's what the factory stuffed into it.

 

Cabs are the same length, which is the important part. I do believe all the mounts are in the same spot.

Edited to add: Also, keep in mind, that a LOT changed in the way everything inside the cab works from 97, to 99. You will need to have the correct dash for the year electronics that you run. The PCM's are NOT interchangeable, and neither are the wiring harnesses.

On the other hand, you can drop the 5.9 into your truck, plug everything in, and it will run. Will be a bit leaner in open loop, but, Dodge tended to run them a bit rich anyway..... a tuner would be a good idea. (solve the issue completely.)

 

Just to make sure i understand this. I can put the 5.9 liter engine transmission and transfer case in to my 99 dodge ram with no issues expcept running a little lean

 

Correct.

 

And needing different drive lines. The 2500 yokes (and the output on the tranny?) are different from the 1500. Having a complete parts truck right there helps.