Yes same engine only 2 cylinders missing.
Quite a bit heavier so more suspension work.
It might be possible with the AC condenser gone to push the rad forward enough.
We will have to see how much room in front of the engine I have when done.
Also need room up there for the intercooler.

BFN
Randy

 

Nice, good luck with the build, cant wait to see the outcome

 

If Dodge would build a Dakota like that i would buy one today.

 

Same here!

 

With the Cummins and NV4500 bolted in place I think I'm only about 1 inch lower in ride height.
I was looking at the leveling kits and see they make a 3". With the 3" I should gain back the 1 inch I lost and then gain the other 2" to level off.
I can only find reference to 1 1/2" and 2" leveling kits on this forum.
Why not the 3"?
I still have to mount my front diff and can move it up or down as well as front to back a bit to accommodate axle angels and clearance.
Just looking for a little guidance on the leveling kits.

Thanks

 

The 3 inchers are strongly recommended for 2wd only, due to the high angle that the rapezzas end up with. Since you're an inch lower, the concern may be nullified. Also, since you may drop your diff the problem will be even further reduced. Here's a link to a bunch kits on ebay:

http://compare.ebay.com/like/1905887..._lwgsi=y&cbt=y

 

use JMR suspension lift with drop crossmembers the dff lower like 3''

 

i am using 2.5'' from rough country since 3 years....with 4x4

 

I don't really want to go that high.
Its a family truck and I just need enough clearance to get the diff under the oil pan.

Maybe we can visit on my cross Canada holiday this summer with the truck.

 

Got lots done this weekend.
Installed the Magnaflow 3" stainless exhaust system. It gets me all the way up to where The Cummins downpipe will be so at least 90% of the exhaust will be stainless.

Got the fuel pump out and a good old fashion pickup tube in its place. The Cummins has a lift pump so I don't need the tank pump anymore.
Removed all the automatic shifter mechanism from the steering column but need to get a new bezel so the shifter hole is gone.
Cut the hole in the floor for the shifter. Bought the stock Dakota shift boot and my NV4500 shift tower is only about 1 inch forward from where the Dodge would have been. Should be an easy bend on the shifter to make that work.
Modified the Ram 2500 triple gauge pod to fit the Dakota A pillar. Took quite a bit of heat gun work to get it to fit. Especially at the top where it needed to flare out to match the old one.
Motor mounts are in so the engine is sitting in place.
Just waiting on a new oil pump pickup since I had to swap the pan end for end to get a rear sump.
Once I have the pickup I can cut the pan to clear the front diff and get it installed.
Its all coming together quite well.
Still have to come up with a mount for the A/C compressor.
As usual, new pic's are here. http://www.flickr.com/photos/75125279@N02/

BFN
Randy