1987 Dodge Dakota 5.9 swap with a NV3500
Re-resurrecting a semi-dead thread; but just found it and wanted to add a few things I found when doing my own swap.
Details:
'88 Dakota RC/SB; originally a 2.2 5spd.
Carbed 5.9 w/LA V-belt front, mounted using factory 3.9 mounts and frame brackets and Durango oil pan.
The LA water pump nose is longer than the Mag pump, so radiator clearance in factory position is non-existent.
A custom radiator that tucks forward into the radiator yoke is an option, but pricey; pre-made radiators of an appropriate size have the cap buried under the top of the yoke making it inaccessible.
My solution: a swap meet '62 Corvette radiator, 25x19 overall, with correct inlet/outlet locations and tanks & core thick enough to cool the 5.9.
Fits like a dream, tucks forward into the yoke nicely; and uses a cap/fill that mounts in the upper radiator hose, from a 2000 Durango.
Finalized installation will be in spring, but it looks like there will even be just enough room for a 14" mechanical fan, and/or about 3-3 1/2 inches of room in front for an electric pusher...
Will post pics if necessary once I can get at it in storage (Keep in mind I'm an old fart with a flip phone, so pics are a process... :) ).
Re-resurrecting a semi-dead thread; but just found it and wanted to add a few things I found when doing my own swap.
Details:
'88 Dakota RC/SB; originally a 2.2 5spd.
Carbed 5.9 w/LA V-belt front, mounted using factory 3.9 mounts and frame brackets and Durango oil pan.
The LA water pump nose is longer than the Mag pump, so radiator clearance in factory position is non-existent.
A custom radiator that tucks forward into the radiator yoke is an option, but pricey; pre-made radiators of an appropriate size have the cap buried under the top of the yoke making it inaccessible.
My solution: a swap meet '62 Corvette radiator, 25x19 overall, with correct inlet/outlet locations and tanks & core thick enough to cool the 5.9.
Fits like a dream, tucks forward into the yoke nicely; and uses a cap/fill that mounts in the upper radiator hose, from a 2000 Durango.
Finalized installation will be in spring, but it looks like there will even be just enough room for a 14" mechanical fan, and/or about 3-3 1/2 inches of room in front for an electric pusher...
Will post pics if necessary once I can get at it in storage (Keep in mind I'm an old fart with a flip phone, so pics are a process... :) ).
