Newbie needs help!

[BIODIESEL10]

Okay, I have been through a number of vehicles in the past year and half because I would buy a vehicle to get from A-B but then decide that I didn't like it for one reason ore another. I decided to really research what I wanted and what would suit my lifestyle. Hands down it was a cruiser. I could not financially pull off any of the cruisers that I had found locally, so I ended up flying out to saskatchewan, (from BC) to buy a bj60. I wanted that paticular one because it was diesel, (I am trying to make biodiesel) and it was a 4 sp. ( I had heard that 5 sp. often have synchro issues and pop out of gear,). The engine only had 247k and the truck had been sitting in the guys shop for 7 years. The problem is that the body is very rusted. My plan was to "poop it up" as I didn't really care if it was pretty, and I wanted to just get it on the road. I thought that I could just work on the cosmetic stuff as finances and time allowed. Little did I know how difficult it would be to find parts ,knowledgable mechanic or how expensive an engine swap would be. I have to admit - I am pretty ignorant in these departments and my husband has no interest what so ever. Anyways - I have found an 84 bj60 that has waaaay less rust, does not need to be imported, has 430k and is currently DD. Finances are tight - should I sell low km cruiser whole and just buy the DD, or should I somehow try to keep the low km engine and one day try to get the engine swapped...? I have attched pics of first cruiser - any suggestions on what I could ask for a price? Sorry about the lengthy write up...or if I've posted incorrectly...but any help would be very much appreciated!

 

[Randy88FJ62]

Your question is a personal / financial question. That is mainly up to you. For how much it costs... no idea, USA we don't have BJ diesels laying around.

 

[BIODIESEL10]

Yeah, I guess I was hoping for some personal opinions. I was quoted $6500 to swap the lower km engine into better body truck. Considering the 2k I could get this other truck for - I'm at $8500. Could probably buy a pretty nice cruiser for that price. Now I am thinking cab swap but that is were I am stuck because I don't have a clue what that would entail. So I can't even make an educated decision if it would be worth a try. Thought someone may have some opinions or experiences that may be helpful.

 

[rchalmers3]

You have some great options, so I can see your position. Here's a few points to consider. You don't need to reply unless it is something you would like to discuss:

What do you want to drive? Are you Ok with a rusty truck or do you want a clean one on your driveway? What about annual inspections in your area?

If you really want a rust free truck, are you willing to spend more than the market valuefor it when it's done? Not that you will be, but is resale a concern as you consider the project? And what are they selling for in nice shape?

What are your financial resources now and for a potential 2-4 month project? Can you see it through if you decide to combine them?

I hope these questions help you clarify what it is you want and assist you to make the best decision for your truck's future!

Best wishes.

Rick

 

[BIODIESEL10]

Thanks for your help, Rick - it is really appreciated! Helped me to put this into perspective a bit more. I think I am going to hang on to the low mileage engine and use the rest of the truck for parts, if needed, on my DD cruiser. One day I will come accross the perfect candidate to drop that engine into - but in the meantime I will drive cruiser #2 for as long as possible, (and use it as my learning tool!).
Thanks again!