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Newbie 03 durango rt KNOCK KNOCK

3.3K views 9 replies 4 participants last post by  rkmdogs  
#1 ·
Hey guys

First want to say hi all thanks for reading. I am kinda new to the forum and wanted to start a thread on my durango.

Specs 03rt 5.9 152,000
Previous owner replaced exhaust, water pump, radiator, hoses, tires, ransmission was replace 40,000 miles ago. Previous owner was driving when the oil pump went out he claims he only drove it like 1 mile. I only paid 1300 for t. It is in immaculate shape. Clean straight and sharp

This weekend a friend and I set out to pull he engine and see what we have. Hoping the best counting on the worst. We got it out in about four hours and got it on the stand. Flipped it over opened her up and he clearly drive more than a mile. There was severe metal shavings on the screen. The number three piston rod was severely damaged. I am fortunate to have a friend that is a part manager that can get the parts I need to rebuild her. I am not going to worry about the piston rod. Going to measure it and if it is round like the good ones I'm going to run it. Some of the nice things are how easy it was to remove the engine. Big but easily enough. I will keep you posted on the progress should be fun.

If anyone has gotten into this situation any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and have a good night.
 
#2 ·
Fortunately, I haven't had that problem with my durango. But I do so enjoy working on my cars. Keep us posted on the progress. And remember, no pics, no proof. lol
 
#3 ·
well the number 3 rod is beyond repair. So there is only one option. BUILD A 406 Stroker

thats right ditching the 360 for a 406 stroker. WIll update with photos as the build progresses. if there is anyone with any ideas and places for cheap options or parts please share
 
#6 ·
Tearing the block apart this week hopefully. Been doing a lot of research. Looks like this is a relatively cheap build. I can't wait once I find out how to load photos I will have before photos of the baby motor before it becomes the monsterango. Ok that might not be the best name. Looking for a name any suggestion. Since I have gotten so many suggestions for parts so far (sarcasm) this should be interesting
 
#8 ·
How about Frankenrango... since, after all, you are bringing it back from the dead.
I've never built a stroker so I'm useless in the advice department there.
 
#9 ·
well sorry guys been awhile since i posted here been extremely busy. Was able to tear the block down Thursday and looks like it will need new cam and rollers. That sounds like more money. Havent put together and exact plan of approach yet hoping to get the block and heads to the machine shop monday or tuesday. If anyone is wondering I have a budget of 2-3k for this build and that is just for the engine not including brakes and other esssential parts. When i am done the block and the heads will be the only part that is still stock everything else will be new.

needs:
complete rotating assembly
complete rebuild kit
TIME TIME

Already have
Money

well i will keep everyone posted unfortuantely i have thrown the bad parts away without taking any photos i will take a photo of the block and heads but if you seen one youve seen them all

mrbeib1127 the answer i would give is very carefully. Also find a friend that is extremely mechanically knowledgeable and have him do most the work. In all seriousness you have to have three things time, money and knowledge. I could say all you need is to get a bigger crank and some other stuff but it is a pretty intense build.

Tymont
I really like your name choice may have to consider it because i am really bringing it back from the dead.
 
#10 ·
The biggest issue will be clearancing. Making sure the moving parts move freely and not hitting anything.
I just traded a built GMC Sonoma with a bored and stroked 383 LT-1 motor for my Durango.
When you "stroke" an engine by using a crankshaft with a longer stroke, you have to check rod clearances inside the block at the walls. Biggest problem is usually the connecting rod bolts at the bottom end!
Many good books with pictures are out there!