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Jim
Dodge Dakota
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12/10/2007
12:33:48
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 Subject: V8 Upgrade
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Hi all. I've got a '96 Dakota with the 5.2L engine/5 speed manual 4x4. I want to tow a 26 ft travel trailer with it (5,800 lbs). Would it make sense to swap out the 5.2L for the 5.9L for additional grunt, or are there other upgrades that I can do to the 5.2L that would give me additional power that I need? I would like an additional 50 HP if possible.
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miltonwaddums
Dodge Dakota
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12/10/2007
13:24:54
|  RE: V8 Upgrade
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There are plenty of mods for a 5.2 to get 50hp. I think this is easier than swapping in a 360. 1.7 Harland Sharp Roller Rockers, a good cold air intake - K&N FIPK is dyno proven about 11 hp (or something around 10 - not real sure), a mild Throttle Body (50mm). I would say Superchips but I think it only goes down to '97. Relocating the IAT and adjusting the TPS should acomplish the same thing as a tuner (best part is that this is free).
A good tune up (new air filter, plugs, etc) will also go a long way. If you're really mechanically inclined, swapping out gears for 3.92s or 4.10s will increase torque on the ground by quite a bit. Plus it will help proteect your driveline/tranny.
BTW, I'll be selling by FIPK on eBay shortly. I'll post a link when I get it up. I'll make sure it fits yours first though if your interested.
Good luck,
Jay
-----------------------------------
Good, Fast, Cheap - Pick 2.
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max
Dodge Dakota
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12/10/2007
17:45:33
| RE: V8 Upgrade
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isn't 5800lbs over the rated towing capacity for a Dakota?
engine power is one thing, but handling / braking is even more important,
even if 50 more HP's allow you to climb a steep grade,
I dont want to be anywhere near you on your way down!
pulling a heavy boat trailer occasionaly 1/2 mile to and from the lake is ok,
but IMO for travelling the open road with your family,
you'll need a full size truck to tow that size trailer safely,
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miltonwaddums
Dodge Dakota
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12/10/2007
18:48:40
| RE: V8 Upgrade
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While I do not encourage hazardous situations, I think 5800 lbs could easily be in the towing range for this truck. Properly equipped, it can tow 7100 lbs. Since the brakes and handling packages do not affect towing performance, I would guess that the limiting factor for his towing capacity is driveline durability and available engine torque.
A good set of tires and proper tongue loading should be all you need to safely tow this, but anyone can correct me if i'm wrong.
Jay
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Jim
Dodge Dakota
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12/11/2007
11:56:31
|  RE: V8 Upgrade
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I've already towed my travel trailer 900+ miles from Cincinnati, OH (I purchased the travel trailer here, awesome pricing, Holman RV) to Lexington Park, MD via a break-in camping trip to Ashboro, NC. The ol' Dakota acquitted itself quite well, til we got to Richmond on I64. The construction through there had the jersey barriers way too close to the traffic and it was hairy for a while. But I got home safe and sound. Had to keep the truck in 4th gear if there was any kind of incline, but if flat or downgrade, 5th gear was ok. I got around 10mpg during the drive and the truck would max out at just over 60mph. So I know all I need is extra torque/hp to get me where I want to be...Thanks for all the replies!!
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.boB
Dodge Dakota
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12/11/2007
17:50:28
| RE: V8 Upgrade
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For about $4K and a week ends time, you can bolt in a supercharger. 6-8 pounds of boost will easily meet your goals without killing that engine.
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kemajic
Dodge Dakota
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2/17/2008
13:39:48
| RE: V8 Upgrade
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Most of the engine modifications described improve the top end, not the bottom, which you need for towing. The best option for the 5.2 to get the torque you need is the 390 stroker kit option. That way you can keep everything stock except the crank and pistons. The 390 has superior torque to a 5.9 at lower rpm and is ideal for towing. The crank and piston set can be had for less that $1000.
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