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I have a 1993 Caravan LE and the head gasket blew. The ...

Sent to Car Experts February 19 2008 at 6:11 AM
   

I have a 1993 Caravan LE and the head gasket blew. The motor has 220,000 miles so I want to replace it with a used motor that has fewer miles. Where can I find out what years are swappable and how to I locate the engine block number, firing orders, or other things that might make a difference when using a motor from another year?

 

Optional Information:
1993 Dodge Caravan LE V6 3.3L

Already Tried:
I swapped a 1994 - it had cracked block(water in oil, billowing white smoke in exhaust) Ran smooth but basically the same problem as the original. I swapped with 1995 - got heavy backfire, flames out exhaust manifold, no exhaust out tailpipe (does this year have a different firing order?) Did not run smooth at all. This vehicle has just had new brakes, tires, shocks, struts, CV axles, etc... so I'm not quite ready to toss it away, hence it needs a working motor that doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $9
Answer
February 19 2008 at 6:14 AM (3 minutes and 30 seconds later)
         
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February 19 2008 at 6:26 AM (11 minutes and 8 seconds later)
         
They have not provided me those answers, just another motor to try. I want to have a better understanding before taking this motor back so that the next one isn't from a year that wont work. I've been told this motor is for an "R" VIN and many of the motors I see available on-line indicate a "T" VIN. Is there a way to check the engine block id to see if it is "R" or "T"? Or does that make a difference? I know on some models the intake manifolds are different so I have to swap those. The fuel lines had different connectors, so those had to be swapped also. They offered me a 1996 but my mechanic said the 1993 can only use 1990-1995. That is why I am asking for the information through a third party - for verification.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
February 19 2008 at 10:17 AM (3 hours and 51 minutes and 4 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
To be safe use same year and model motor
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