If my research is correct I should be able to directly swap a 5.2L from a 1998 Ram 1500 into a 1999 Ram that currently has a blown 5.9L, shouldn't I? A fellow has a 99 just like my 98 except it had a 5.9L. It is a really nice, low mileage truck and my truck, while mechanically sound, has been beat up badly-inside and out. If I read right, even the ECM would still work right. AAny thoughts?

 

Engine should swap right over. Not sure about the PCM, there may be changes in the 98.5 PCM.... Check your trucks build date. If you have a 'newer' 98, shouldn't be any problems.

5.9 PCM will run the 5.2 a bit rich in open loop......

 

I have an early build 98-July 1997 production.

 

Might be some differences in PCM's then.... Don't know for sure though.

 

Even if the PCM's are different, I don't think that would cause a whole lot of issue. Wouldn't the the sensors between the early 98 and late 98 be the main causes of why the PCM would not cross between the two? Maybe because of the difference in the motors? Or I may just not be looking at it right

 

I am not sure there is actually any difference at all. So far as I know, the CTM came about in the 98 model year, and only really changed for the option level of the truck. The 98 PCM may plug right in, and work just fine. I suspect it will have to be flashed to the correct vin though, for ABS, and SRS to be happy.

 

even if you do the swap, why wouldn't you swap your pcm over into the new truck anyway?