Russell, I'm with Richard on this. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cyclops.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> Also, although I really doubt you will... let me know if you need any help for a wrenching party. I'm sure with what you've done for others in the way of cheap parts, we can get some volunteers to come up and help. If not, I look forward to the next time they need a part from you. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/evil.gif" alt="" />

Most used 2.6 heads will show a crack after 80,000 miles. What matters is, is it leaking?

If you see a crack in one cylinder, in most cases the head will be OK... Three cracks is bad.

A pressure test will screen out the bad parts.

Yes, its nice to have brand new parts that look perfect, sometimes you need to make due with what you have.

Kevin

Kevin, one head cracked thru the exhaust valve seat. The other would need the leak test, as you suggest, to be sure. I'm just lacking the time of convenience. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Russell, if it's off interest to you, I have a 2.6 engine in the bent truck. Now, bare in mind I was told the oil pump failed, but if you want me to pull the valve cover and cam to see if it survived, I can. If it looks good I can pull the head. Just a thought <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

To all, I have made a deal for the MM Turbo and all the parts. I will be exchanging $$ for the truck and parts this week some time. Colin took me for a little drive, listening to the turbo spool was pretty neat, but pulling away from the light was better...lots more torque than I thought it would have. I'll have to make a second trip to get all the parts, will fill our little trailer pretty good. After I change the tires, and what-have-you, I think the truck will be a good vehicle for me.

Pics below:








Many of the excess parts he has will have to be sorted out for my storage first, Roxy's needs, and then see what will be for sale from the bursting stores of Montero Ranch.

Russell <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Major cool <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" /> Nice Gen2 wheels

Turbo truck (lighter, but with a 3.909 diffs?) only slightly slower than a turbo 4spd swb = you will be so HAPPEEEEEE...

Makes boost real early, huh? Like there are 4 more cylinders under the hood? Now just wait until you get used to that, and then we'll go and buy a $15 wwgrainger adjustable pressure relief valve and up the boost a couple of pounds. Your right foot feels better, already, doesn't it? I suggest some 4.222 diffs, if you tow, and upgrade the brakes.

The trucks corner better than the monties, too. When I was running some 255/70-15's on mine, I could just drive away from 3 series beemers in the freeway on ramps.

I couldn't confirm the gear ratio, but it felt distinctly higher than the 4.625 I'm accustomed to in Roxy. Colin has an intercooler setup and straight-thru downpipe, but it's kind of a 'Mad Max' setup, using his words. The intercooler mounts to the front bumper and a different grille is used.

I'll be replacing the SR wheels with others I have in order to have better tires, probably next weekend. I measured for 33" fitment, but looks like a no-go without a body lift and/or trimming. I'm also mentally wondering whether swapping in a set of Montero difs would be advisable (??), as the truck already has a limited slip. Extra parts include a Starion rear pumpkin with LSD, too.

Regarding the front brakes, aren't they already the larger diameter, like the V6 Montero?

That's a good looking rig, Russell. I think you're doing the right thing. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

That's a really nice looking truck, Russell!

Eric W.

EDITED to remove the question about smogging in CA -- just read the entire thread and see it has already been discussed... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cyclops.gif" alt="" />