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Post by cncdakota on Jan 3, 2018 18:39:00 GMT -5
I bought a truck 2yrs ago specifically to do this swap, and I’m getting ready to start now. This is going to be a 5.3L engine going into a 2003 4WD Dakota. I’ve been following every build on here, and the ZL1 Durango answered a lot of questions. Thank you so much for such a detailed build! At this time, I’m beginning to gather all the parts I think I’ll need, so I wanted to list everything that I have in my list of items and questions; and hopefully I can get some feedback on anything I may have missed. - Complete truck engine with all accessories, including AC. It seems there’s a bunch of places to acquire engines from. I’m considering a reputable vendor rather than the local yards (been burned too many times) If anyone has suggestions, I’m all ears.
- Cable TB, or DBW?
Pros/cons?
- 4WD engine mount adapter plates from LSDAK – will I use these with the mounts/perches from the 3.9 engine?
- I like the headers in the ZL1 Durango. What did you use for the rest of the exhaust? I’m in a county that has emissions inspection, and I’d like to prove that this can be kept compliant, so I’ll need the cats.
- Radiator recommendations? - What have you used for hoses?
- I plan on removing the regulator and using the stock fuel pump
- I can’t use the existing trans because it’s a NV3500 with the integrated bellhousing (nor would I want to keep it, since it has almost 300,000 miles on it) I was planning to go with a new AX15.
- I’d like to keep the stock gauges. From what I’ve read, I need to retain the Dodge sensors to make them work.
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Post by casias on Jan 5, 2018 15:21:29 GMT -5
Thanks for following. I'll offer suggestions in the order I would approach this. 1) Transmission choice. The AX15 is a good transmission, and can be made to fit behind the LS engine with a novak adapter plate, I think. Here is the link. www.novak-adapt.com/catalog/adapters/engine-to-transmission/ax15/kit-gmax152) Someone else on here tried to use the stock gauges in a 2003 and didn't have success. I used the stock gauges in my 1999 R/T initially, and being analog, they worked fine. But the type of BUS changed in 2001 and the new BUS is all digital from the ECM. Without an engine running, the gauges wouldn't operate. Or so I am told. 3) In your case, I would go with a Gen III LS engine with cable throttle body. It would be a challenge trying to fool a Gen IV DBW into working without proper signals from the transmission. I would contact someone who does wiring harnesses. You will have best luck if you find someone experienced locally. Try finding out info from a local racing club or hot rod club. If they are experienced, they will be able to tell you what can work, and what won't work. 4) For radiator, I've always used the stock radiator. Even in the ZL1. I do put a Taurus electric fan in, but no other modifications. Depending on which ECM you choose, the electric fan should be controlled by the ECM itself. 5) As for stock fuel pump. I would plan on replacing it with a new 255 Walbro. They are almost drop in. Then you need a 58 psi regulator or adjustable regulator. Pretty easy. 6) The ZL1 is using Hushpower HP-2 mufflers directly off of the headers (with a short extension) and turn-downs. No x-over pipe, and only front O2 sensors. It sounds mean, but without drone. 7) As for mounts/perches. I would have to see a picture of you engine bay with the engine out. I believe they are all the same, but not 100% sure. Hope this helps. 2000 Durango ZL1 AWD 1999 Dakota R/T 6.0/6l90 |
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Post by cncdakota on Jan 7, 2018 14:07:25 GMT -5
Thanks for the advice, Casias. I agree that swapping out the fuel pump for the Walbro 255 is probably a good idea, since I'd have to drop the tank to remove the OE regulator anyway. - It's a shame that you don't offer the kit that was in your videos. That would've been perfect.
It looks like the mounts on my V6 are the same as what I've seen on the V8 4WD Dakotas, so I'll just need a set of your adapter plates.
And if anyone has a plastic LS block that they're done with, I'm interested!
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Post by casias on Jan 7, 2018 14:52:18 GMT -5
I have one, but I wouldn't part with it. You can get them at summit, but the price has jumped a lot in the last few years.
2000 Durango ZL1 AWD
1999 Dakota R/T 6.0/6l90
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Post by 93ragtop on Jan 8, 2018 8:34:09 GMT -5
If you dont mind me asking, Why are you using a AX15 transmission?
This is what I believe is the history of the AX15.
Dodge started using the AX15 in place of the NV2500 somewhere in the early 90's
The AX15 was used behind the 3.9 V6 engines.
When the dakota became available with a 5.2 V8, and a 5 speed, (94?) they upgraded the transmission to the NV3500 for the V8 but still used the AX15 for the V6
In 2000 and up, they used the NV3500 behind both V6 and V8
It's my understanding that the AX15 is weaker then the NV3500
Chevy used the NV3500 behind the 4.8 V8 and the 4.3 V6. So it is available with the correct bell housing.
One word of Caution with the NV3500 The dakota and ram used different versions. The main problem using a ram version in a dakota is the shifter is more forward in the truck. Also, I think the dakota has a closer gear ratio.
The chevy version, I have no idea of shifter placement.
Good luck, and I look forward to watching your build!! I would love to put a LS in my 87 dakota. IMO keeping a reliable 5 speed along with 4wd is going to be the biggest challenge.
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Post by cncdakota on Jan 8, 2018 10:17:12 GMT -5
I was on the fence about either the AX15, or the NV3550 (which is pretty close to a NV3500, just with a changeable bell housing). I'll admit that I have no issues with the NV3500, the one that's in my Dakota at the moment shifts beautifully. I think that the version with the GM bell housing will also have the shifter in the wrong location as well. The support for the AX15 is my main reason for choosing it. From what I've seen, the AX15 and NV are pretty equal in their torque ratings. I don't plow, tow, or haul anything excessive with this truck. So when dealing with a lighter truck like a Dakota, it should be able to handle it.
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