Heads and cam swap

That is my understanding as well.
The 87-90 are the flat nose trucks. All were 4cyl and V6. Except the 89 shelby 5.2L package. It is my understanding they used a different engine cradle, moving the engine slightly backwards so the pulleys would just clear the radiator. (still used V-belts) Then they sandwiched 2 electric fans between the radiator and condenser. The shelby was only available in automatic and 2wd.
91 was a 5.2L (LA) motor, but I think it had a serpentine belt system with a clutch fan. But the nose of the truck was redesigned, allowing 3-4 in more clearance. That along with the serpentine system gave enough clearance....
92-96 had the magnum series engines.

I think I could use any of the shorty headers made for the 5.2 magnum. The problem is the flange is going to be made to bolt to the small headpipe.
There may be room to cut that flange off, go with the slip connector on a 2.5 in collector, and make the exhaust......

The only long tube headers I have found for a 1st gen dakota (87-96) are the hookers. https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...year/1989/make/dodge/model/dakota?prefilter=1

Thanks to everyone for their input!!