What do you think are the "better and worser" years Dakotas for a hemi swap? I'm not even sure what all has rack steering. Evidently the 2wd went to "rack" before the 4x4s which are "box" steering
The 2WD were always rack & pinion. The 4x4 didn't get a rack until (I think) '00. At least that's when the Durango did.
I've had several Dakotas with the '87-96 generation my favorite. I prefer the looks, visibility in them, and the lighter weight. Currently have the '96 4x4 I ordered new and a Shelby Dakota. The Shelby is getting reborn slowly for road race work.
Was going to put a '92 together for a drag truck but got a deal on a RWD converted '91 Daytona so the '92 Dak went back to being a parts truck and the Daytona will be for the track.