'05 to '06 Front End Conversion ?

[MCummings]

How hard would this be to do?



My Dad has a '05 4-door Dually Auto DRW truck and I really like it. Throttle response is great, ignition feels mechanical, transmission shifts predictable... I drove a '06 Mega-Cab Dually for about a week, and din't like it all that much. Throttle response was much slower, transmission wasn't sure when to go into O. D. ingnition switch felt disconnnected from starter, and the dash just didn't flow right to me.



Problem is, I don't care much for the '03 -'05 front end, but I LOVE the front-end of the '06 - '07.



I see Chevies converted often to a cadillac front end, or to a newer body style, etc. , but can we do it with the Dodge?



I realize I will have to buy atleast the headlights, grill, hood, front bumper, and the front fenders, but will they bolt in? I know the '06's look different underhood compared to the '05's, so I don't know if they will bolt up, or will require extensive body work.



Looking for some experiance and body workers.



Thanks,

Merrick

 

[SKargo]

They will not bolt in at all. The inner structures are different. I run a bodyshop at a Dodge dealer, and have been asked this.



It would be cheaper to trade up to an 06+.

 

[MCummings]

That sucks bad. :{ :-laf



I really like the '06/'07, but hate the drivetrain.

Vice versa for the '05.



Oh well. I hate to give up so soon, but if you say it's not possible, then it's not.



Merrick

 

[SKargo]

Anything is possible, just $$$$$ gets in the darn way sometimes.

 

[MegaRocks]

MCummings,



I think you should drive another 06' truck. I just came from a 04. 5' 600 automatic truck to the same thing but in 06'. The only difference is the Mega vs. Quad cabs. In my experience, the drivetrain is better on the new truck. The transmission is much more decisive than the older truck was. Both trucks have same ratios and tires and everything. You will like the tow/haul and o/d off button better, and besides you can actually put an engine brake on the new truck. Can't with the older automatics.



Try another truck!