The 4.7 doesn't have a very good track record, they self destructs if they have not seen very regular oil changes, and then they still has issues. I think MB decided the 4.7 only needed to survive to 150K miles, sure some go longer, but they are the exception rather then the rule.

I'm looking for a drive train for my next hot rod, and will probably get a Dakota as a donor. If it has a 4.7, I won't even look at it. 5.2 or 5.9, or even the 3.9 would be the better choices, in my opinion. Gene