Alright, so finally an official update on my engine swap! This is a
cross-post because I'm lazy :) There's a link to pictures below also.
The swap I've undertaken is to cannibalize the engine & transmission
(and everything else related) from a '94 5.2L 5spd 4x4 complete donor
and install it all in my '89 Convertible, previously a 3.9L pre-mag
auto 4x4.
Tom asked about the auto-to-manual portion of the swap... and other
than wrestling the heavy parts without a transmission jack and without
pavement... it was quite easy! The floor cut was easy (I took creative
liberty with the exact shape... the big square hole is unnecessary),
the donor crossmemeber bolts right in, the pedal swap is simple and
straightforward, regardless of transmission every Dakota has a hole in
the firewall for the clutch master cylinder, so the only holes I made
were the two drill-holes in the pre-stamped dimples for the ma/cyl
reservoir. Easy! I can explain in much more detail for anyone more
interested in this swap, even if a complete donor isn't available.
So what's left?
Cab wiring (tonight)
Engine wiring (Thursday/Friday night)
Re-assemble accessories (weekend)
Radiator & electric fan setup
If I finish this weekend, that's a two-week swap. Not bad considering
I had no garage and no pavement to work with. Some of you know I had
considered making a complete cab swap - the lack of a good reg cab
donor and the rapid decline of my transmission halted that idea. Plus,
I picked up my donor for a price too good to pass.
Okay so pictures! www.pbase.com/radon220/gina_swap
I'll update again when she fires up. Thanks to the list for priceless
help! Let me know what you think!
Don
74 Dart Sport 340
89 Dakota Convertible 5.2mag/5spd/4x4 (85% done!)
CT
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| Make your plans NOW to attend the National DML Meet in Colorado! |
| Date: July 15-23, 2006 - More info: http://meet.dakota-truck.net |
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