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Thread: 85 re-powering suggestions

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jun 2012
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    sarasota fl
    Posts
    6

    Default 85 re-powering suggestions

    I seized my 2.3l motor and am looking at replacing it with a 4.3L v6. I know this comes with issues but they all can be over come with brute force and holding your tounge right. Have any of you veterans completed a swap with success? Wondering if there is a conversion for the tranny as well or should I swap both.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Location
    Gerber, CA
    Posts
    400
    '85 what? Montero or pickup? Differences in the engine bays could dictate other engines, though the 4.3 will work in both. Also, the 2.3L is a diesel. You could run a 4BT Cummins.
    1987 Dodge Raider - Roxy
    1988 Mitsubishi Mighty Max with Starion turbo - Pearl
    1987 Dodge Ramcharger LE - Ryan
    19-something M100 trailer - Darrel (ict)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jun 2012
    Location
    sarasota fl
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    6
    Montero,, Sorry got ahead of myself. Wonder if I put more power to the drive train will I need to beef up the tranny or diff?

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Location
    Gerber, CA
    Posts
    400
    The rear diff will handle a little bit more power. The front diff is marginal. The trans will not handle the torque of a V6, but does stand up somewhat to a turbo 2.6l.
    1987 Dodge Raider - Roxy
    1988 Mitsubishi Mighty Max with Starion turbo - Pearl
    1987 Dodge Ramcharger LE - Ryan
    19-something M100 trailer - Darrel (ict)

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Jun 2012
    Location
    sarasota fl
    Posts
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    Thanks RXINHED. I now know what direction to go. Now looking for 4.3L with 4X4 tranny.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Location
    Gerber, CA
    Posts
    400
    Look for an automatic trans, easier on the axle parts.
    1987 Dodge Raider - Roxy
    1988 Mitsubishi Mighty Max with Starion turbo - Pearl
    1987 Dodge Ramcharger LE - Ryan
    19-something M100 trailer - Darrel (ict)

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Mar 2009
    Location
    NorCal
    Posts
    3,275
    Not sure if any on here have done the 4.3L swap but I know several have on 4x4wire. May want to ask there for more detailed insights, pics, etc.

    Also check out Don Huysman's website for a write-up...
    http://www3.telus.net/public/dhuysman/vortec01.html

    1989 SWB Montero (3.0L v6, rear LSD), 33" mudders
    1996 Montero SR (3.5L v6, rear Locker), 35" mudders, 3.15:1 xcase crawler gears
    Build Thread: http://www.expeditionportal.com/foru...su-build-up...

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Location
    Gerber, CA
    Posts
    400
    Also, there is an SAS solid axle V6 Montero SWB for sale in the 4x4Wire classifieds. Already done and a good price, too.
    1987 Dodge Raider - Roxy
    1988 Mitsubishi Mighty Max with Starion turbo - Pearl
    1987 Dodge Ramcharger LE - Ryan
    19-something M100 trailer - Darrel (ict)

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Jun 2012
    Location
    sarasota fl
    Posts
    6
    Thanks for the advice.. I might just buy a finished buggy instead of rebuilding this vehicle again. I have replaced the engine twice and the tranny once. I've had several 88's and 85's for swapping parts. Been a great buggy.

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Jun 2012
    Location
    sarasota fl
    Posts
    6
    Hey Off-roader, I checked out that link and what a great project. It sure looked goon when all done. Looks to be a bit out of my comfort zone. Big job..
    Thanks for the link..

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