Posted By: Cheeto
Dakota and Magnum questions for rodders. - 02/01/14 02:57 AM
1) Are the Dakota and Durango frames similar as far as being a donor for a '40s-'50s truck?
2) Do all Magnums share the same mounting position? Basically, if my donor had a 3.9 Magnum can I physically put a 5.2/5.9/4.7 in its place?
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: Dakota and Magnum questions for rodders. - 02/01/14 03:43 PM
No not all the frames are the same, the best ones for this swap are the 87-96 Dakotas. The 87-96 are narrower and take the five lug axels and rotors.
If you have a good frame I would just mustang II it. My frame was hacked beyond repair or I would of mustang II it.
Posted By: savoy64
Re: Dakota and Magnum questions for rodders. - 02/01/14 07:44 PM
2wd and 4wd are different it is coil 2w vs torsion bar 4w-----early 2W frames are better because you can use the 5 on 4.5 hubs and you can buy 2 inch lowering spindles and if you need it lower you can also get 2 inch lowering springs....bob
Posted By: Cheeto
Re: Dakota and Magnum questions for rodders. - 02/05/14 05:55 AM
I found some really good info on Allpar regarding the differences too. I looked at a Durango donor yesterday at the auction. The frame bows out right at the point where you'd want to shorten it. Bummer because Durangos are cheaper than Dakotas around here.
Posted By: poorboy
Re: Dakota and Magnum questions for rodders. - 02/05/14 06:14 AM
I believe all Durangos are 4x4. Pretty limited use in a street rod. Gene