I know the talk about a V8 pops up here every so often. But I figured I would add to the ramblings. I might have a line on an LS1 motor, and my Raider being a lighter truck doesn't really notice the lack of power from the 3.0. My 4dr Montero on the other hand, 31 inch tires and a loaded trailer definitely lets you know your engine is not up to the task on long grades. I was wondering if anyone knew of adapters, or companies that could make a bell housing from a Montero bolt to an LS1?


I figure the trans will hold the power, and I don't want to dump alot more money into a full trans and transfercase setup from another truck.

GM transmissions are so cheap, it would probably be cheaper to get a GM trans for the Ellis Juan than it would be to adapt the Mitsu (Aisin?) box to fit.

At the local parts yards, automatics are $75 on sale weekends (at least 1 weekend a month).

my concern is I don't want a F'd up looking center console. Did any of the 4.3 guys make the stock shifter work?

Yes. I drove Bob shaw's 4.3 with the stock shifter. He had an aftermarket spedometer though in place of the original. (and an upside down toyota axle with a detriot in it for that matter)

Not to be harsh but if you're worried if the factory shifter can be adapted to work then a swap might not be a good idea. Making the Montero shifter shift (insert trans here) is going to be one of the easier parts of the swap.

Being a Montero guy to the core i like to keep as much Mitsu in my truck as possible, but i am also on a thin budget so i build trucks on the cheap. My suggestion is use the drivetrain that already matches the motor, this will make your life easier. If you have the funds or the MacGyver ability i say go for the LS1/Aisin combo, other wise make a check list of things you'll need for the complete swap. Plan on clearancing things under the hood, frame modifications, component relocation, custom mounts and crossmembers, DO A BODY LIFT, think about oil pan to differential clearances and don't forget custom driveshafts.

I adapted my Stock Auto shifter to work with my 700R4 when I first did my swap. Honestly.... If you're concerned about a stock shifter, and retaining a console you're prob not in the right mindset to accomplish an LS1 Swap.

Also you need to get out a tape measure, and see if it is at all feasable in the first place. Lots of measurements to make. I don't think a GM flexplate will fit inside the Asain bellhousing.

Also you're looking at 2k ish at the bare bare BBBAAARRREEE minimum for just a motor swap if you somehow got it adapted to the mitsu Trans.

Wiring harness, ECU reflash, Motor mounts, cooling system, High Pressure fuel system. Interfacing the acessories, AC, PS are the most difficult.

Also, <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> Consider moving your radiator in front of the core support as well, you'll probably need the room.

hey, I can do mechanics all day long. I am a pretty good welder these days as well. I just don't like having a stupid looking mismatched interior. Those little details that make you feel good when you drive something... I know if I get this motor, I would be moving the radiator forward, or moving the firewall back a few inches... My bigger concerns would be making a camaro LS1 motor work right. If I do it, its going to be a pretty heafty bill. Might be cheaper in the long haul to find a crate 350 with a carb and bypass any ECM headaches. I also have to look at what drivetrain I should use.