The LS series of engines is aging quite well. It has been seventeen years since the conception of the LS1 (feel old yet?) and folks are still cramming them into any and everything that they can get their hands on. This phenomenon should become even more common with the earlier components of the LS platform as the latest phase of GM performance rolls out.
Today’s Craigslist find features a Dodge Dakota that a Chevy fan managed to get their hands on and put under the knife for a good deal of modification. According to the owner, the 1998 Dakota has been LS1 powered for a total of three years. Aided by FAST 102 intake, custom headers, and Comp Cam, the Dakota makes 400 horsepower to the rear tires, which we would imagine is a ton of fun, especially when backed up by a 6-speed T-56 transmission.
The cool part of this swap is that the truck is in fact an original R/T, which makes it all the more unique. While the original 5.9 wasn’t too shabby, we bet that the modified 5.7L Chevy makes just a bit more power than the old setup.
Due to the need to purchase a house, the owner is looking to sell what he calls his baby. Even though his journey with the truck is over, we give him mad props for undertaking such a unique swap and bringing it through to fruition. Best of luck with your sale – this truck should make somebody a very happy owner.