Hi all, I've owned a 03 Dakota with the 3.9 v6 for about 2 years now. RWD. I'm the 4th owner but it only had 108k when I bought it. Now at 123k, Ive really come to love it, it has been trouble free and for a 22 yr old v6, it's no slouch. Servicing it and upgrading old worn parts I've realized other than it sitting so low, you won't find an easier truck to work on. It's originally from Vegas area, so it's aged really well. I'm gonna hang onto it forever. Knowing all that, seems strange to want to entertain the idea of swapping the engine, but i think the platform is a good candidate to have a little fun and make it stand out and turn some heads. I've seen the videos of folks putting all different Hemis and LS in them, Banks even put a Cummins in one way back in the day. The example I found that made the most sense to me was this. This seemed both impressive and reasonable. It being my first swap attempt, I'd just like a fairly smooth and worthwhile transplant, not a pit of misery. Hoping I could get some input about what folks have done, what they would have done different, things to look out for, sourcing quality used or new stuff etc.

 

Welcome to DF! Post any questions you have in the 2nd gen Dakota section.