Cummins 3.3 vs. 3.9

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Dec 4, 2008
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Been over to 4BTswaps and read a lot about these motors. I understand the numbers on paper and capabilities of both. What I need is if anybody has real world working knowledge of both. What are some differences/similarities in terms of install, maintenance, aesthetics, etc. I do not have to worry about emissions for the diesel motors.

Going to do a diesel swap into a 62 series and have a 3B/H55 combo in the garage ready to go. Most say the 3B is underpowered, so before I do it wanted to do one last research thread. Like the idea of a cummins for parts availability in the states, but don't know the everyday enjoyment of either(3.3 vs 3.9) motor.

My off roading consists of some logging roads and dirt desert tracks. No major obstacles other than the occasional long, steep hill. Other than that it would be a DD 9 months out of the year. Would like the NV5600(6 speed?) behind it if possible for long trips from Texas to anywhere pulling a light trailer. Summer is coming and I can hear the wrenches turning.:)
 
No emissions worries

No, no worries about emissions in the lone star state.
 
since you are doing it in 60 series LC why not do a 5.9 6BT cummins? My dad has on in his 85 FJ60 and been running it for the last 10 years. CumminsCruiser
He is running all stock running gear but upgraded to the FJ62 transfer case since it is a little beefier than the FJ60 Transfer case. He is running a NV4500 transmission behind it.

Just another option to think about. I just bought a 3.3L 4bt for my FJ40 and will be dropping that in my LC at the end of this summer.
 
add a turbo to the 3B (i can get you a manifold) or do the 4BT
 
I researched this a bunch before I installed mine.

In a nutshell, you could never tap into the full power/torque of the 6BT. It is simply way overkill.


since you are doing it in 60 series LC why not do a 5.9 6BT cummins? My dad has on in his 85 FJ60 and been running it for the last 10 years. CumminsCruiser
He is running all stock running gear but upgraded to the FJ62 transfer case since it is a little beefier than the FJ60 Transfer case. He is running a NV4500 transmission behind it.

Just another option to think about. I just bought a 3.3L 4bt for my FJ40 and will be dropping that in my LC at the end of this summer.
 
Is the 3.3 a shorter engine? That might make for an easier install.
 

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