Backwoods Rambler
Explorer
I know how these threads usually go....everyone who has an opinion about what engine is best and will want to tell me to use XYZ engine. Believe me I've considered many (Stroker, GM 4.2 i6, GM 4.8 v8, GM 5.3 v8, ect, ect..) and am still on the fence. But this time, I'm JUST looking for tips, insight, experience, expertise on the following....
I'm hoping to swap a 2008+ Dodge Dakota drivetrain (4.7 v8 + 545RFE + NV243) into my 1998 Jeep Cherokee since my engine is starting to show wear. This is the "same" engine as used in the Jeep WK / XK and therefor I'd be "keeping it Jeep" even though it's coming out of a dodge. I chose the Dodge Dakota version because I feel like the PCM will be tuned more for HD use than the PCM used in the WK or XK. To that end, I suppose Dodge Ram 4.7 & drivetrain would work as well, if not better, and even offer a bit more power and HD-ness.
On with the details....
I am planning to utilize the Dakota throttle pedal and also the Dakota gauge cluster to simplify the fuel & engine monitoring needs. I plan to get the majority of the exhaust so that the swap will work with my local emissions regulations. Since I can't find a way to bypass it, I'm also hoping to get an original ignition key & switch for the vehicle I get, so that I can use it to work with the SKIM system. Lastly, I may try to swap the NV243 for my current NP231 if the electronics & fitment will allow it.
To show that I'm not just trying to get others to do the "leg work" for me, I present to you all, my current findings.
Starting in 2008 dodge revamped the 4.7l v8 to output*:
302hp @ 4,600 RPM's - 330ft lbs @ 3,600 RPM - w/a Max RPM of 6,000
*Dakota Specs
I consistently find them going for anywhere from $2,800 - $1,800 on car-part.com (searched using '08, Dodge Dakota, engine & Midwest as criteria)
Besides the many public forums and personal websites I've browsed looking for answers, I also used the following for insight:
www.backwoodsoffroad.com
www.burnsvilleoffroad.com
www.dodge.com
http://www.allpar.com/mopar/47.html
http://www.dodgeforum.com/forum/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Dakota#2005-present
I've also contacted several of these companies as well as many service departments @ local Dodge dealerships. So far I've got nothing back.
Some highlights:
EPA Estimated 22mpg (in a stock 2wd Dakota)
E85 compatible & can handle “low” 87 Octane (presumably 85 at my elevations)
Electronic shifting part time 4wd system (possibly change to manual shift?)
5spd automatic transmission http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_RFE_transmission
(5th is another overdrive gear, which is good for highway MPG)
136amp alternator
For swap, get: engine (from oil pan to intake), partial exhaust (to include cats) transmission, transfercase , complete wiring harness, PCM (ie: any computer stuff) AND the gauge cluster & throttle pedal from the donor vehicle (if its drive by wire).
So the questions, that I still have are:
Are any other electrical items I need to be concerned about for this swap?
Any other advice you would offer?
Perhaps there's an easier way to perform this swap that I'm overlooking?
A big thanks in advance for any help/tips/advice anyone can offer.
:smiley_drive:
I'm hoping to swap a 2008+ Dodge Dakota drivetrain (4.7 v8 + 545RFE + NV243) into my 1998 Jeep Cherokee since my engine is starting to show wear. This is the "same" engine as used in the Jeep WK / XK and therefor I'd be "keeping it Jeep" even though it's coming out of a dodge. I chose the Dodge Dakota version because I feel like the PCM will be tuned more for HD use than the PCM used in the WK or XK. To that end, I suppose Dodge Ram 4.7 & drivetrain would work as well, if not better, and even offer a bit more power and HD-ness.
On with the details....
I am planning to utilize the Dakota throttle pedal and also the Dakota gauge cluster to simplify the fuel & engine monitoring needs. I plan to get the majority of the exhaust so that the swap will work with my local emissions regulations. Since I can't find a way to bypass it, I'm also hoping to get an original ignition key & switch for the vehicle I get, so that I can use it to work with the SKIM system. Lastly, I may try to swap the NV243 for my current NP231 if the electronics & fitment will allow it.
To show that I'm not just trying to get others to do the "leg work" for me, I present to you all, my current findings.
Starting in 2008 dodge revamped the 4.7l v8 to output*:
302hp @ 4,600 RPM's - 330ft lbs @ 3,600 RPM - w/a Max RPM of 6,000
*Dakota Specs
I consistently find them going for anywhere from $2,800 - $1,800 on car-part.com (searched using '08, Dodge Dakota, engine & Midwest as criteria)
Besides the many public forums and personal websites I've browsed looking for answers, I also used the following for insight:
www.backwoodsoffroad.com
www.burnsvilleoffroad.com
www.dodge.com
http://www.allpar.com/mopar/47.html
http://www.dodgeforum.com/forum/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Dakota#2005-present
I've also contacted several of these companies as well as many service departments @ local Dodge dealerships. So far I've got nothing back.
Some highlights:
EPA Estimated 22mpg (in a stock 2wd Dakota)
E85 compatible & can handle “low” 87 Octane (presumably 85 at my elevations)
Electronic shifting part time 4wd system (possibly change to manual shift?)
5spd automatic transmission http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_RFE_transmission
(5th is another overdrive gear, which is good for highway MPG)
136amp alternator
For swap, get: engine (from oil pan to intake), partial exhaust (to include cats) transmission, transfercase , complete wiring harness, PCM (ie: any computer stuff) AND the gauge cluster & throttle pedal from the donor vehicle (if its drive by wire).
So the questions, that I still have are:
1. Can you tell me if the PCM monitors the transfercase?
2. What fuel pressure does the Dakota pump push?
3. Is the Dakota a return-less fuel system?
4. Is there any way to bypass the SKIM module?
5a. Will exhaust manifolds off of a 2002 Grand Cherokee v8 fit on the 2008 Dakota v8?
5b. Are the manifolds the same? If not, I'm thinking the GC ones might be required to fit the narrow frame of the XJ
6. Where can I find measurements for this engine?
7. Where can I find a full factory service manual for this vehicle?
8. Does the Dodge incorporate anything like the Torque Management feature found in GM PCM's?
2. What fuel pressure does the Dakota pump push?
3. Is the Dakota a return-less fuel system?
4. Is there any way to bypass the SKIM module?
5a. Will exhaust manifolds off of a 2002 Grand Cherokee v8 fit on the 2008 Dakota v8?
5b. Are the manifolds the same? If not, I'm thinking the GC ones might be required to fit the narrow frame of the XJ
6. Where can I find measurements for this engine?
7. Where can I find a full factory service manual for this vehicle?
8. Does the Dodge incorporate anything like the Torque Management feature found in GM PCM's?
Are any other electrical items I need to be concerned about for this swap?
Any other advice you would offer?
Perhaps there's an easier way to perform this swap that I'm overlooking?
A big thanks in advance for any help/tips/advice anyone can offer.
:smiley_drive:
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