I have a 94 Dodge Dakota 4X4 5.2 liter Automatic with O/D. I want to swap a manual trans into it anyone know how difficult this might be? Or the other option is a better/stronger/lower maintenance Auto. My goal is to eventually run on 35"s and maybe solid axle up front but maybe just an IFS lift up front new leafs out back. throw some ideas at me. The thought process behind a manual is they are simple and low maintenance and on top of that i love driving manual vehicles. but if i go that route i imagine i will have to change the transefrcase as well which i wouldn't mind either just need an ida what parts i need to look for.

If you're only gonna run 35's, then I'd say have your auto rebuilt with heavy duty bands and clutches and have a shift kit put in it. it'll be cheaper in the long run than trying to put a manual in it...lots of fab and very difficult unless you have a complete donor truck. That auto will hold up just fine to 35's....unless you get realy deep with your gears in the axles and transfer case. SAS a dana 44 and just do some leaf springs. The IFS likely won't hold up to the 35's. There are a ton of dakota SAS threads in the dodge forum, check them out

hi, thanks for the post...