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.