I have a 1998 Dodge Dakota but I do not know the engine size. It is either a 5.2L or 5.9L. The tag is missing from the door and the VIN is incorrect. It is NOT a 4.7L. Is there a tell-tale sign to distinguish between the 5.2L and 5.9L? They look very similar.
Because the VIN says the truck is a 2000 w/ 4.7L. It's definitely not a 4.7L. The engine is cast with date of 3/98 and the suspension is for a 98 truck (pitman arm whereas 2000 has rack and pinion). I took the truck to the dealer, they looked up the VIN and said that the truck should be a 2WD with an automatic transmission, but this one is a 4WD with 5-speed manual.
So, basically, this is a 1998 truck with a VIN from another vehicle. I'm not sure why or how, but someone along the line swapped the VIN plate. That's my sad story of getting screwed by a crooked dealer. I tried to get an attorney to sue the guy but no one will take the case because they feel they'll never get paid and I can't afford to pay a lawyer up front. So I guess I'm stuck with the truck.
Whoever did this, put a hood sticker from a 2000 which says the engine is 4.7L. This was enough to fool the smog tech as I passed the smog test here in California. The test was performed as if the truck was a
2000 4.7L rather than a 5.2L 1998.
I found out about this not being a 2000 when I was involved in an accident. Repair parts were ordered based on the VIN and nothing fit. After trial and error and looking in catalogs, the shop determined (the front-end anyway) was a '98.
It was either fraud, or out right theft. Truck was probably repaired with STOLEN parts. In calif it would have a salvage title. It would have had to be inspected BY the CHP, also would need reciepts for replaced parts and a NEW VIN sticker issued. IF THE POLICE ever had the need to check the VIN the vehicle could be seized & impounded
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