If I just pick up a engine/tranny combo, would it make since to just go ahead and do the 360? Since I would be picking up a tranny to go along with it, would there be much else I would need to change out to make it work? I've researched and looks like the 318 PCM will work. I also have a hypertech PCM piggy-backed, and also have a Mopar PCM (CA version) that I have laying around. Would the 1.7 rockers be a good fit with the 360? Don't take it to the drag-strip much (haven't in years actually since I have had issues with the transmission). It's more of an occasional daily driver thanks to gas prices, but I do like to get on it when I can :) So, torque would be the larger goal over hp.
Date: Fri, 20 May 2011 23:38:21 -0400
From: Ken Allgood <kenallgood@cox.net>
Subject: DML: Engine/Transmission options
Been awhile since I’ve posted on here, but still browse now and then. Unfortunately, I think yesterday I added the Dakota to the KIA list. Driving to work, I gave it a little gas on the highway as I was going up a hill, and the engine starting thumping and metal clacking real bad, so I believe I’ve got a spun bearing. I managed to get it towed home today, but I think it’s going to be sitting for awhile, I have no funds at all to get it back up and running. It’ll still run, but it’s very very rough, and I’m sure it’ll throw a rod if I start it up anymore. So, was wondering what options in the future I may have for it? I’m probably looking at a long-term project, 3-5 years best guess unless I get rich overnight. Here’s the low down
97 Dakota SLT 5.2L Auto 176k miles
50mm F&B TB, JBA Headers, M-1 Intake Manifold, Gibson Cat-back exhaust, High-flow cat, K&N instake
I’m debating whether to stick with a 5.2, and maybe find a used one. However, I know my transmission is on the mends as well. It started slipping about 40k miles ago, and slowly gets worse and worse, though it’s not bad unless you’re getting on it on an uphill. Though, it wouldn’t surprise me that’s what ultimately killed my engine…. Running at 65, need to pass someone, give it a little gas, and it shifts to 2nd, then bounces off the rev limiter and won’t shift until you let off. Only happens for ½ a second cause I let up as soon as it happens, but it still happens.
So, I’m also tossing around the possibility of going with 360 and a transmission to match it. Though, I know that entails at least a computer, and probably some other items, but don’t know what those are. 408 Stroker would be a dream, but that would be just that, a dream ïŠ Eventually, I may be able to spend about 5k overall over the next few years to do it up, but I know it’ll be rough to do engine and transmission for that.
Oh year, here’s a pic. It’s about 5 years old, but it looks the same except it’s got clear corners on it now. Paint is just as good now except 1 spot on hood where clear coat is peeling
http://members.cox.net/kenallgood/dakota/Dcp00397.jpg
Ken Allgood
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Wed Jun 01 2011 - 12:13:05 EDT
