pjc...@gmail.com wrote:

please please please

I'm almost 41.6% positive that the following information could be
correct:

- Bell housings are the same.
- Flywheel:  Autozone says they're different.
- Clutch:  Autozone says they're different.
- Engine Mounts:  Autozone says they're different.

I'd thought that the 3.9L was just a 5.2L with 2 cylinders missing
(.65L per cylinder for both).   Perhaps the difference in part numbers
has to do with balance and/or strength.

- Wiring:  I haven't a clue.  If they're both port fuel injected then
you might get away with splicing in a couple of new injectors if you're
lucky.  This could be the toughest part of the job.  Just don't get
discouraged and stick a carb on it.  Keep every component off the donor
truck.

Since you're dealing with basically the same truck, details like
manifolds and oil pans are probably okay.  Get as much of the exhaust
as you can get and as much of the engine mounts as will unbolt.  If one
is throttle body and the other is port fuel injection then you'll be
swapping fuel lines and fuel tanks.

Don't start a project like this unless you're in it for the fun of the
work.  If you just want a V8 Dakota then sell yours and buy another.

Also keep in mind that it'll no longer be smog legal since the 1995
engine is older than the 1996 truck (nobody would ever notice where I
live, though, but it could always become an issue someday).

-rev

Don't do this. If you must, use a late model 5.9 and you will need
everything from the5.9. This is a big job and expensive if you do not do
this yourself. Be prepared to spend no less than $5k and most likely, $10k
before you are done. Buy another vehicle and sell yours.
Steve