Transplant for my da

Since you have the 4.7, I'd look at a 5.7 Hemi before the work to convert to a 5.9 personally.

The 5.7 is a "family" motor with the 3.7/4.7, the 5.9 is based on mid-60's technology (the 273/318/340/360 LA block), which was based on early 60's technology (the A block polysphere motors!).

Besides, "It's got a Hemi!" means something to folks ... *grins*

RwP

Well, the good news is that the 5.9 is a factory option for 2000, so you can do it with all factory parts.

Bad news is, there's enough different that it's not much less than dropping a 5.9 into, say, a Chevy pickup to drop a 5.9 into a 4.7 equipped Dakota.

If you really want a 5.9, I'd look for a 5.9 equipped 2000, built it up, and sell the 4.7 equipped Dakota. While not being able to say "Yah, it's got a Hemi." *grins*

RwP