Hi All,
I'm in the process of doing a 6.0L LQ9 LSx engine into my '78 FJ40 and the motor work is nearly complete, so it's time to make an adapter decision and start ordering parts.
My setup:
'78 FJ40 (25 years of ownership )
Currently running a 2FE/H55F/Split Case with 4:1 gears and t-case drum parking brake
Full float rear (FJ45)
Longs up front
DC driveshaft out back
Sprung over on pretty flat springs.
FJ55 springs out back for increased wheelbase.
Custom propellor style crossmember, which actually doesn't leak and is really strong. Utilizes rubber "hockey pucks" on the frame mounts for some flex.
Mark's 4WD adapter - This is the way I'd really like to go.
I am running a custom built skid plate which also hosts a traction bar mount. It's built specifically to be strong and only drops below the frame as little as possible to clear the split case.
I solicited some advice from a trusted LC Professional, and this was not his recommended path.
This option is more expensive, but would allow me to keep my custom skid and crossmember, without modification
This option would not require driveshaft mods
This option would not require shifter relocation (transmission and tcase twin sticks)
This option is obviously more expensive
Advanced Adapters:
Recommended by trusted LC Professional
Requires moving drivetrain ~3.5" forward
Requires driveshaft, shifter, crossmember and skid plate mods (if I can even make the skid work)
Less expensive
I think I've read every thread available that touches on the subject, so I'm soliciting more input from anyone who has debated. I'd also LOVE to hear from anyone with some runtime on Mark's adapter with an LS and H55F or 4-speed Toyota. I'm not really sure why this was not the recommended approach, but I plan to reach back out to my advisor for clarification. If anyone has lessons learned or any cost-saving tips on either setup, would love to hear it.
Thanks in advance!
Ramon
I'm in the process of doing a 6.0L LQ9 LSx engine into my '78 FJ40 and the motor work is nearly complete, so it's time to make an adapter decision and start ordering parts.
My setup:
'78 FJ40 (25 years of ownership )
Currently running a 2FE/H55F/Split Case with 4:1 gears and t-case drum parking brake
Full float rear (FJ45)
Longs up front
DC driveshaft out back
Sprung over on pretty flat springs.
FJ55 springs out back for increased wheelbase.
Custom propellor style crossmember, which actually doesn't leak and is really strong. Utilizes rubber "hockey pucks" on the frame mounts for some flex.
Mark's 4WD adapter - This is the way I'd really like to go.
I am running a custom built skid plate which also hosts a traction bar mount. It's built specifically to be strong and only drops below the frame as little as possible to clear the split case.
I solicited some advice from a trusted LC Professional, and this was not his recommended path.
This option is more expensive, but would allow me to keep my custom skid and crossmember, without modification
This option would not require driveshaft mods
This option would not require shifter relocation (transmission and tcase twin sticks)
This option is obviously more expensive
Advanced Adapters:
Recommended by trusted LC Professional
Requires moving drivetrain ~3.5" forward
Requires driveshaft, shifter, crossmember and skid plate mods (if I can even make the skid work)
Less expensive
I think I've read every thread available that touches on the subject, so I'm soliciting more input from anyone who has debated. I'd also LOVE to hear from anyone with some runtime on Mark's adapter with an LS and H55F or 4-speed Toyota. I'm not really sure why this was not the recommended approach, but I plan to reach back out to my advisor for clarification. If anyone has lessons learned or any cost-saving tips on either setup, would love to hear it.
Thanks in advance!
Ramon