Engine swap?
#1
#2
#4
#5
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.
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.
#6
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.
The Dakota may work, as long as the year is the same.
Last edited by sparkzz; 06-08-2012 at 09:25 PM.
#7
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.
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.
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#8
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
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
#9
#10
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.