Hello, My dad has a 1988 dodge ram van 3.9 v6 and the engine is already bad all over and i was wondering what other engine can i use thats a simple swap? thanks!

 

"Simple swap" ??
I don't know about that, but your options are a junkyard engine, or a rebuilt long block.
You might find a fair junkyard engine for around $500.
A rebuilt long block about $1500.
Then installation -- who knows. 500-1000.

 

will any other dodge engine fit?

 

I am a founding member of the KISS club. (Keep It Simple, Stupid.)
In a word, "NOPE" !

If you don't like the 6 cyl in the 1988 van, you would be much better off just ditching it and buying a van that has the engine you want. There are certainly plenty of used ones out there.

 

Yeah but this van has a lot of sentimental value to my father so i wouldn't wanna buy a new van. I heard the Dakota engine would fit, is that correct?

 

Well, if you're looking for an "easy swap", and you want to put anything in that hole other than an '88-'91 Dodge 3.9L V6, than all I can say is "good luck", and hope you have a thick billfold.
The Dakota may work, as long as the year is the same.

 

Must agree with Sparkzz find another van or try to improve the health of your Dad's V6.

Over my lifetime have replaced 14 motors, one was a 88 B350 (360).

The B Van was by FAR the biggest pain in the ***, you have a choice of almost taking the entire nose apart or pulling the motor through the passenger door.

Let me say I love these Ram Vans and hope to always have one but I would pay someone to swap a motor.

The 5.2 and 5.9 will fit but you will need to swap/replace all kinds of parts.

Good luck if you attempt the swap feel free to PM me if I could answer any questions.

 

Like said before, the actual engine swap would be the biggest PITA.

Since your van is OBD 1, and with hydralic transmission, ditching the computer could be done and a 318/360 carb version inserted. You would or may need a new (I am guessing here) input shaft of flexplate/bellhousing for the transmission.
You would also need to rewire the fuse block. All this stuff isn't that hard for a seasoned weekend warrior. If this is not you, just get your existing motor rebuit for about 2k out the door.

good luck

 

Alright thank you guys so for a in and out swap i would have to use a engine from a 88-91 correct?
What's the easiest way to take out the engine cause i can see the front doesn't have the biggest working space

 

remove the radiator/grill/radiator support/front bumper/valance/hood/ac compressor (and other parts the book(s) say you need to unhook/disconnect) Take a bobcat with front forks under the exhaust manifolds, and guide it out.

I have only done 2 van engines, and I really don't look forward to doing one again. If I do, I will take most of it apart before trying to pull it out the front again. Would be easier if the top (intake / heads / air box) was all off first. Gives more clearance to wiggle it out.