[Joseph]

I have one 1990 3.9 auto convertible RWD and one 1990 2.5 standard convertible RWD. The 2.5 probably needs a new engine. Rather than putting a 20 year engine in, is there any way I can put the cab/front clip onto a donor 4th/last generation Dakota?

I know things are not likely to match up, but can they be made to fit?

Thanks.

Joe
Columbus, OH

 

[batman13]

anything can be made to fit....
but you have to realize the new trucks are a lot bigger,
it would be a lot easier/cheaper to put a newer engine in the old truck

 

[killer1963daddy]

there is an old saying in these parts..anything is possible with enough time and money......but i agree with batman on this one!

 

[photobob]

Welcome to the forum! I am contemplating a cab switch from a 1993 chassis that has a 5.2L engine in it. My convertible is 4WD and I never drive it in the winter. So, I thought that I'd make the 93 a 4WD and the convertible a v8 (I currently have the V6 in it). Other options I have considered is dropping a new 5.9L in the convertible, but I bought this nice 93 with a good engine. Here is a link to that thread.
http://www.customdakotas.com/forums/styling-forum/11890-complete-chassis-swap-90-93-a.html
Don't know why they put such wimpy engines in these great convertibles. I see that you are not too far away. Same with you batman13, you live very near to me. We'll have to get together some time. Do you ever go to cruise night in Wauseon?

 

[batman13]

nah, wausons like 2 hours west

i spend all my time and money on trying to get my 97 back on the road, it'll be some time before its ready to hit cruise nights anywhere

 

[photobob]

nah, wausons like 2 hours west

i spend all my time and money on trying to get my 97 back on the road, it'll be some time before its ready to hit cruise nights anywhere

Sorry, I guess I was thinking that you lived in Ridgeville Corners Oh.

 

[87DakBuilder]

One other problem to consider is the obd 1 system vice the obd 2 computer systems..... After 96 all vehicles are required to have OBD II setups, that would cause a greater problem for you than the actual fitment.

 

[Joseph]

What I wish I could do would be to take the cab shell with convertible top, the fenders, grille, hood and doors and swap them onto a Gen4 truck. I would not mind the newer OBD, and would even prefer to keep the gagues all intact. Then I would have a Gen! Convertible on the outside and a Gen4 truck on the inside.

One other problem to consider is the obd 1 system vice the obd 2 computer systems..... After 96 all vehicles are required to have OBD II setups, that would cause a greater problem for you than the actual fitment.

 

[DRAGN94]

anything is possible with a cut off wheel, sawzall, and a welder and lots of time and imagination