Thanks for the great input and links.

From what I've read so far I am going to become a Montero man. I'm impressed with the stats and the community of Monty fans.

I posted this same question (just worded slightly differently) in the Trooper section and I have yet to get a reply.

Tell me more about the transmission(s). Is the Montero transfer case a separate unit from the transmission. I understand that the 89-91 Trooper trannys are one integrated part (which I dont like).

Does the Monty V6 have iron heads or aluminum?
Are the exhaust manifolds for the Gen-1 motors the same as exhaust manifolds for Gen-2?
I ask because the Trooper Gen-1 V6 motor is GM (Fiero and S-10 I believe) but exhaust manifolds do not swap from Fiero to Trooper. I understand that Trooper exhaust manifolds are hard to come by.

I've also read something about the timing belt having an issue with the belt and a belt idler / tensioner. Is this accurate?

I agree with Halfbreed, once I choose a machine I'm sticking with it. That was what I wanted to do with the Trooper but found out that I just couldnt deal with the 4cyl's limpish power. Also I'm a big fan of round headlights. I had swapped out my square headlight grill for an early model Trooper, but finding side turn signal lights was super hard...and is only getting harder. I like the look of the Monty grill.

So keep the opinions coming.