Drivetrain Swap Help

[okefenokeefzj80]

Alright guys,

I may get crucified on this, but here goes. I've had my troopy (1981 HJ47) for a little over 2 years now. Since then, I've driven it for maybe 2 months total as I keep having problem after problem with transmission, engine, various parts, etc. I've gotten so fed up that I'm done. I'm going to pull everything (except transfer case) and start over. I'm not somebody who wants this to be all original either...I want it to be dependable and easily fixed.

I'm going to put a GM drivetrain in. I know that sounds terrible, but I want something that can be easily worked on and I don't want to waste weeks searching for parts. I'm also aware that I'll need an adapter for the trans/transfer case.

I'm looking at 3/4 possible swaps and I need some input.
1. LS-1 (local shop has it and a SM420 ready to go)
2. Duramax/Allison
3. GM 6.2 Diesel/Fully Mechanical
4. GM 6.5 Diesel

Let me know what you guys think and if you know of any major pros/cons of any choices. Think I'm leaning more towards a 6.2, but I'd love to know what you guys think.

Thanks,

sj

 

[2manycruisers]

I would do an LS series Vortec 5300 with 4l60e to toyota t-case, lots of power, decent mileage. If you have lots of money to spend, the duramax would be awesome, but you better replace everything downstream while you're at it. Don't do the sm420, I don't think you're after a rockcrawler, so you'll just have a 3 speed.

One of my troopies has an old 350 with h55f. I love the v8 power, I would like to update to the 5300 for the efi and mileage; one of these days, maybe.

I wouldn't run any diesel without a turbo, 6.2, 6.5, 2H, 1H-Z, none of them; though at your elevation maybe it's more tolerable. V8s are just plain fun, and lots cheaper to operate/repair/obtain

 

[captcruiser]

I think the Duramax would be the ultimate drivetrain with upgraded axles.

 

[daniel.watters]

I like choice 5) 2H with stock 4 speed They're really not that hard to get. Mine gets almost 20mpg and has decent power and plenty of torque.

I think it is weird if a Toyota does not have a Toyota powerplant. But that's me. In the end, it is your truck. Good luck!

 

[Eco 45]

Why not a Cummins 4BTA? Cummins are more reliable than the GM diesel engines. What ever diesel you go with I would suggest 3.73 diff gears to get the most out to the motor.

 

[okefenokeefzj80]

Thanks for all the suggestions/responses...but I think i have a few more questions now.

Will the Cummins 4BT fit into a troopy? I was under the impression that there wasn't enough room for it.

Will I be able to find an adapter plate for the V8 swap in response 1 from that tranny to the toyota transfer case? I'm guessing so, but I wasn't sure on that one.

Thanks guys,

sj

 

[Eco 45]

A Cummins 4BT will fit in a FJ40 so it will fit in a Troopy---does require some lift to clear the oil pan.

As far as adapters go you can use a stock Toyota transmission and get an adapter to mate up to a V8 or you can get an adapter to made a Chevy Transmission up to a Toyota transfer case---go to advanced adapters web site.

 

[76FJ40]

I don't want to hijack this thread, but how would a 4BT tow? It's a long story but I'm planning to sell the only vehicle I have that can tow my 40 so my 45 may get pressed into service as a tow vehicle.