Hi all, I'm back again. The source of motors that Adrian had suggested seems to have dried up in Japan. They are still trying to source one for me, but haven't been able to in 3 months and are pessimistic about finding any in the future. So, can anyone else recommend a reputable source for either motor? Preferrably a 1/2 cut so I get all the small parts along with the motor/tranny.

On a side note, if that doesn't pan out, can anyone suggest a good option for a diesel conversion for a different manufacturer? My ultimate goal is a project of fitting a diesel motor into an SUV or pickup. The 4JB1/Trooper line was ideal as the motor/tranny bolted in with no welding. I wouldn't mind selling my Trooper and going with a different brand to achieve this goal. I'm just not aware of any bolt in engine/tranny options at this point. Suggestions would be apprecated.

The best case would be to find a different source of the 4JB1. We'll see what happens next.

Thanks!
Paul

Paul --

If I were to do it again, I'd check the forums at a conversion site like www.toyotadieselmadness.com for some leads. Those guys perform this sort of work on Land Cruisers and pickups and I've seen several talking about ordering half-cuts, so maybe their sources could also deliver Isuzu parts. I seem to recall that there was a favorite/reputable source they were recommending.

Failing that, most japanese performance-oriented message boards deal with importing engines on some level and could also provide some leads.

You could also explore the Olds diesel option (as discussed on this forum) or, as I am contemplating, the Isuzu 4BD1-T found in the NPR trucks - there is now a chevy small block adapter package available for it, opening transmission options up considerably.

Good luck, and keep us posted.

heh, funny you should mention that Adrian. www.toyotadieselmadness.com is were I started my story. Toyota was my first choice for a conversion project but I soon convinced myself not to go that direction, that's when I found all your info and I just couldn't pass up such a great option. I hadn't thought of contacting the favored importer for the Toyotas to see if they have an Isuzu source. I had looked through their site and saw no Isuzu, but it couldn't hurt to ask. I appreciate the nudge in that direction. That'll be my next step.

If anyone else has suggestions, please let me know, anything/everything is useful.

I will keep you all posted. Thanks!

Paul

Paul -- Take a look at eBay item 280139907034. These guys may have what you're after, although I have no idea whether their price is fair or not. I'd say that having all the little bits together in one shot is worth something (coming from someone who has had to track them down individually).

Thanks Adrian. Man, the price of that one makes me question how bad I really want this. It's essentially twice what I'd be paying through Charlie, though Charlie doesn't have access to any. Looks like the auction ends next weekend, I'll have to do some 'soul searching' over the next few days and see where that leads.

I've been researching other brands/vehicles to do a conversion with. There don't seem to be any good alternatives. With Toyota, there are some options, but the half cut is really costly. Other brands don't offer 'bolt in' options like the 4J/Trooper does.

The only possible alternative I've dound is a VW diesel into a Suzuki Samurai. Again, I have to do my 'soul searching' to figure out what I really want. I had my heart set on the Trooper for a few months now, hard for me to change direction. There's always the question of if a motor will show up next week. Never know.

We'll talk soon.

Paul

If you're willing to forget the bolt-in requirement, I've been researching an Isuzu diesel conversion of a different sort. Send me an email if you want the details.

what is the swap

A good site that I've found is
4btswaps.com or .net
IIRC, there is a 2nd Gen Trooper with a 4BT there.

Also, in your area is dieselhead.net

ACME adapters has the VW conversion kits for Suzuki and Toyota trannies.

hey, im interested, does anyone know if the 4jb1, and the 4jg2 are both workable in the older troopers, or just the 4jb1?? thanks!! fox

Based on my research, they share the same block, so both should fit the same chassis. I have not personally inspected the 4JG2, though, just the 4JB1.