What differences are there in the drivetrains between the 6 and the V8s? Are they the same tranny, driveshaft, u-joints, rear axle (other than ratios)?

Possibly looking at an '01 Ram Van 1500 6 with towing package... a 6 doesn't seem like the right thing for towing and if the drivetrain on the 6 is more fragile than that on the 8s, then it's REALLY a bad idea....

 

They are pretty much the same. You might find different axle ratios, and of course the V8 will have an OD tranny and the V6 will not. If given the choice, get the V8 because you will have the same MPG but more power.

 

Thanks.

Hmm - I'll search to see if a V8 swap is possible.

 

Who am I to question you but why not find a nice van with a 5.2 or 5.9?

 

That would be ideal, but lately here in the northeast, just finding a nice van is tough, let alone trying to find one with specifics. Of course, it doesn't help that I'm a bottom-feeder -- meaning that $3k is a more than I usually spend on a vehicle, and $900 is better...

 

FWIW a rebuild of the 46RE transmission is twice the price of the 32RH...

 

DaveG2570

I too live in Massachusetts so do know how hard it is to find a rust free van.

That being said I have replaced a 360 in a 12 pass 88 B350 and after pulling and pushing engines through the passanger door I must say don't take the process lightly.

I'm cheap too but take some time find a 5.2 or 5.9 well worth the effort.