Tech Q and A

I own a 1999 Dodge Ram Quad Cab® with the 5.2L V-8 (95k miles). I find the acceleration and engine performance to be lethargic to say the least. Seeing how I’m only getting 12-15 mpg, I should at least feel happy about it. What can I do to improve the engine’s performance besides the basics? Are there any Mopar® Performance parts out there—it seems most parts are for the beloved HEMI.® I have already changed the spark plugs, the serpentine belt, and the transmission (went south on me). Any help would be appreciated.

MM: For your Ram we do still have some performance parts. The performance intake P5007852 is a single-plane intake and will increase power at higher RPM—this intake is a direct replacement for your stock intake when used with installation kit P5007638. After the intake installation, we recommend installing a good set of headers such as Doug Thorley, and a Cat-Back™ exhaust like Borla.® The combination of those upgrades should give your Ram a wake up call.

I have a 2004 Dakota SLT+ Quad Cab® 4x4 with the Magnum® 3.7L V-6. I’m investigating installing a MDS HEMI and any other useful drivetrain parts from a 2005 Grand Cherokee into the Dakota. So, the big question is, is it a reasonable fit in the engine compartment of the Dakota? Are there any other major hurdles that I should be aware of? Any suggestions (other than a psychiatrist) are welcome!

MM: Believe it or not, there are many individuals that have successfully made that swap—including pages upon pages of information at two separate forums. For more info, visit dodgedakotas.com and dodgeforum.com.com.

I own a 2010 Dodge Challenger with a 5.7L HEMI and automatic transmission. Are there any exhaust system upgrades for my car available from Mopar?

MM: Mopar offers a T304 stainless-steel Cat Back™ exhaust system, P5155283, for the Challenger with 5.7L HEMI. The upgrade includes mandrel-bent tubing, stainless band (Torca) clamps and dual rectangular polished tips. The exhaust system improves engine horsepower and torque, fuel economy and delivers a deeper exhaust tone.

I own a 5.9L ‘98 Durango with an automatic transmission. I’m wondering if I can swap in a manual transmission, and if so, which trans do you recommend? Does Mopar sell a reman manual trans that I could use in my ’98 Durango?

MM: You would need to find a ‘98 Dakota with a 5.9 to harvest the engine controller, harness, pedal assembly, and cables (for the correct operation of the powertrain). Then you will also have to modify the body and replace the driveshaft. I’m sure that Mopar Reman will have a transmission for you, just visit your local Dodge dealer and have them look up a part number for you.

I hear Mopar Performance is now offering lift kits for Jeep vehicles. I have a 2007 Jeep Rubicon 4-door. What kind of lift kits do you have for my Jeep?

MM: Mopar Performance has two (2) lift kits for you to choose from: 2 inch lift P5155207 (shown) and 4.5 inch long arm lift P5155075. Both kits carry a lifetime parts warranty (which covers all the parts in each kit).

I’m looking to get more power out of my ‘99 Dodge Dakota R/T. It has the following upgrades: MP Cold Air Intake, MP M1 intake, MP P5007551 cam, MP P5249464 springs, 160° thermostat, MSD 6 and Blaster coil, MP headers with a real 3-inch dual exhaust with Casper O2 jumpers, MP computer and MP 1.7 roller rockers. The truck is doing the quarter mile in 12.4 at 101 mph. I want to go all out—low 10s. The truck is not a daily driver (goes to shows or the track ). Please help me shave off 2 seconds.

MM: That’s a mean Dakota you have there. It’s going to be hard to shave 2 seconds off an already very good time. We have a performance package that can help (P5153590). The kit consists of the 1000 CFM throttle body, harness, computer, injectors, fuel pump, wires, distributor. This kit will allow you to run the P4876348 (.501/.513) Mopar Performance cam, which is the same cam we use in the 360/390 crate engine. We also recommend using the P5007258 (4 inch stroker crank). You will have to visit an aftermarket piston company such as (Diamond or Keith Black) for the correct pistons. When you’re finished, you will have a 402 stroker making well over 400 hp.