I am looking at Dodge ram Van V6 3.9 1997 with 111,000 miles .. I has been inspected, It looks great prefect shape.. Was used to hall stuff to craft shows.. I want to buy to use for small contracting business.. is this engine reliable or not.. In not what should I do.. Thanks Spencer

 

Spencer,

I have both the B1500 (V6 3.9L 239cid engine) and the B2500 (V8 5.2L 318cid
engine). The V6 is actually the V8 with the two rear cylinders chopped off.
Most of the parts are interchangeable between the two. However, I do miss the
super slant six in the 1987 and earlier vans. It was 50 horse power less, but
the fuel economy was excellent!

My folks have the B250 with the 5.9L (V8 5.9L 360cid engine). Notice that I
stated B250 vs. B2500. The extra zero designates vans made after 1994 that were
the refresh with the magnum engines, fuel injection, ABS brakes, new front end,
tranny cooler, and other extras.

I also have a 3000lb travel trailer camper that I tow with. With all of the
gear maxing the camper at 4500lbs and my family of 8, the van pulls well on flat
highways and stops just fine. The fuel mileage is decent at 16mpg if driven
with care. I'm not talking about driving like a grandma either.

So, the V6 will do the job alright for a work van. Remember to only use ATF+3
or ATF+4 trans fluid in these vans. Do NOT use Dextron III. It will ruin
the tranny. Also, the rear axle uses 75W-90 gear fluid too.

Great to see you in the forums!

Peace!

Stev