Hey guys:

New member. I am about to pick up a very straight '90 Montero Sport 5-speed that has a weak or dead engine. The existing engine has 340,000 on it and I doubt is worth repairing, so it needs another one.

Before I get into something that is unsolvable without a lot of money, I wanted to get some absolute answers to a few questions.I searched and searched and didn't really get anything more than vague answers, so here goes-

1. I know there are differences between the minivan 3.0L and the RWD version as far as oil filter location is concerned. Van is on the side of the block, RWD at the front.

Can the FWD engine be used in the RWD truck by leaving the side mounted filter in place, or will it not fit that way at all?

2. Assuming I buy a used FWD engine, which are numerous and cheap, will the crank be drilled for the pilot bushing? How about the bellhousing bolt pattern? Motor mounts?

3. What is the significance of the '97-on gen 2 montero engine and will it work in an early Montero?

I'm not worried about the work involved...I do that stuff all the time. I just don't want to buy an engine I can't use and a vehicle I can't find an engine for.

I'm not interested in swapping to a larger engine, just another 3.0L for now, with plans for a diesel swap down the road.

Thanks for your time and advice.