[Jeepman]

I have found the 3.3 adequate to my needs and fairly peppy. The 3.8 has a little extra if you need it the odd time .... towing, loaded down, or whatever .... and logically, being of the same design as the 3.3, uses a little more fuel in the process.
To have the same efficiency as the 3.3 during normal driving, the 3.8 would need higher gearing, which would bog it down when .... towing, loaded down, or whatever.
A case of can't have your cake and eat it too, I'm thinking.

As to durability, both engines have lots of that.

 

[Jeepman]

FWIW - I've had five 3.3's...most reliable power plant I've ever owned.

No doubt, one of the best. I've had two 3.3s. My Son has my first 3.3 now with around 330,000 kms, and still going strong.
Here's a little history of the 3.3/3.8 http://www.allpar.com/mopar/33.html including this statement:

Ervin added: “On the Caravan with the 3.3, take the bolt out of the front engine mount by the radiator and let the engine rotate forward as far as possible and then set the parking brake. Watch for clearance as you push the car in park and it will work. You can then use a socket extension straight down on the plugs and reach them easier.”

Anybody reading this ever take that approach????

 

[Jeepman]

Just bought a '92 for $500. 198,000 km....

My local mechanic told me horror stories of "...fuel rail failures" and lifters. I have yet to find out what these are, but yet I held the 3.3 V6 and it sounded strong.

Oh, yeah! Apparently there is a pin that over time will break loose and grenade the engine and transmission...something to do with lack of proper lubrication during high torque circumstances.

Other than that I am also interested to know more about these motors.

He (the mech) did say that of the "mini van world", the caravan is the best option, to quote....

"they made them first, they made them best."

He drives a '96

The 3.3 is a great engine. Reliability is among the best.
As to a pin breaking, I believe he might be eluding to a transmission problem whereby it isn't wise to spin your wheels and have them fetch up suddenly.

 

[Jeepman]

The 3.8L has taller gearing so there can be at least a little cake eating. Per my 2000 DGC factory service manual, page 21-89:

Gear Ratios
First --> 2.84:1
Second --> 1.57:1
Third --> 1.00:1
Overdrive --> 0.69:1

Final Drive Ratios
2.4L --> 3.91
3.3L --> 3.62
3.8L --> 3.45

Chocolate cake, I bet. :biggrin:
What speed does 2000 rpms give you in overdrive? My 3.3 gives 100 kph / 62 mph. Are you getting 105 kph / 65 mph?