I am seriously considering pulling the trigger on a very clean/original Mitsubishi Montero. The 2.6l has a bad rod knock which developed a month after the guy selling it had the head gasket and timing chain done. My guess was the crank bearings were already wiped before the hg/tc replacement, but the rod broke once he was ripping it around thinking it was good to go.

Anyway, I really want the rig because of the condition of the body and interior. It doesn't have a spec of rust on the undercarriage as well as the body which still has the original paint. My dilemma is what route should I go? Should I tear it down and see if the block is salvageable for a full rebuild? Should I find a good used one or think about a motor swap?

I am definitely more of a Toyota guy. I have a complete 1986 Toyota pickup drivetrain as well as a solid front axle from an '83 lying around the shop. Not sure is this is even close to doable, but I do have all the tools and fab skills to attempt it. Just wondering if I'd run into some big difficulties going this route. Wiring is my weak link, so I'd like to stay with a carb or possible a throttle body set up. Once you start talking ECU's/cam sensors etc I tend to shy away.

I really cant answer those questions for you. Only you can answer them. Sorry.

???

My way of thinking is, I care more of the body and chassis been in good shape because the mechanical part is easier to fix, replace, update etc...

I would say get it and inspect the block to see if it is repairable, if it is get it done make sure that the head is in good shape, as they are the Achilles tendon on these engines, if it is not replace it with a Clearwater Head, or convert it to turbo and you will have a solid and reliable drivetrain for miles to come.

Javy

Bad rod knock? Hahahahahaha If the balance shaft goes bad, it makes a rod knock noise. Wouldn't that be great? Balance shaft delete and you're rolling. The 2.6 is a pretty easy motor to go thru.

Agreed, get it if you're into the clean body. start with trying to fix it, if no go, then you can go to replacement.

Thanks for info. I got the rig yesterday. The body and interior is in excellent shape. I got it for $700. I will get some pics in a few days. I am looking forward in getting it back on the road.

I believe that was the problem, but my buddy and I were doing a compression test when a pushrod came through the valve cover. Looks like a new motor is in my future.

What other vehicles were the 2.6's put in? I know the Raiders had them, but they are as rare as the Monteros. I have read that Mazda's B series trucks came equipped with the Mits 2.6 but are they a bolt in swap? Do the intake/exhaust manifolds along with the carb interchange?