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Okay, this topic, FSJ Diesel Conversion, is one that has been discussed to death.
I've posted this topic elsewhere on the web,
for I would like to harvest as much info as I can from as many folks as I can.
In my research, I found a lot of talk,
but few nitty-gritty details of what a person can run into while performing this type of engine swap.
Let me start by saying, I?m looking a J20 pickup with its AMC 360 engine out and in pieces.
As gasoline in the US is near or at in some places, the $2.00 per gallon price,
diesel looks like a inviting and fun long term project.
The following info is what I have gathered during my research and is the basis of my preliminary plan.
Engine and Transmission
I will use a 6.2L GM diesel and TH400 transmission.
The 6.2 will be modernized, using a CUCV intake, slightly larger injectors and performance tuned injector pump.
Some 6.5L parts may find their way my planned 6.2.
It will be naturally aspirated at the beginning, saving $$$ for the other details and components for the rest of the swap.
I would like see 300+ horsepower from this engine
I have chosen a 6.2 because it is a cheap and plentiful engine.
The lack of electronics is a big plus for a swap in an older vehicle.
Lots of cheap mods can be made to make the commonly underpowered 6.2 produce plenty of horsepower.
Also, because the 6.2 share the same engine mounts as a small block Chevy and many folks have swapped in a SBC in a FSJ, physically mounting the engine should be a snap.
Much easy than mounting a 6.9/7.3 Ford or 5.9 Cummings.
The TH400 will be built to handle the torque and horsepower of the 6.2.
Once again, because a TH400 has been used in a FSJ, mounting, crossmember and linkage issues should not be a problem.
Transfercase
Transfercase poses a slight issue, as to which one to use.
Because the 1981 model J20 that I planning to use has a driver?s side drop front axle,
then I would need to use a TC that also has a driver?s side drop.
What transfercase will bolt up to a TH400 with no adapters, can handle the torque of a diesel and have a driver?s side drop?
Now for the little details that no talks about:
Wiring
The 6.2 does not have that much engine wiring.
But, how do I found out about the few wires that exist?
What they are for?
Where do they need to go?
Do I need them all or can I eliminate some?
How/Where do I slice them into the existing FSJ harness?
Fuel
Where is the fuel line need to be on a 6.2?
Is it in the right location for the fuel line entrance into the engine bay of a V8 FSJ?
Will I need an electric fuel pump?
What size/brand would I need?
Cooling
The radiator poses another issue, as it would on any engine swap.
I?m sure I could get a custom rad built for a price, but is there any other options?
Cut the core support to retrofit a stock Chevy unit?
Conclusion
Well, those are all I can think of at this moment.
I hope this creates a good discussion.
Your comments, opinions and flames are welcome.
Your support is more appreciated.
[ May 08, 2004, 03:48 PM: Message edited by: The PIG Smith ]
I've posted this topic elsewhere on the web,
for I would like to harvest as much info as I can from as many folks as I can.
In my research, I found a lot of talk,
but few nitty-gritty details of what a person can run into while performing this type of engine swap.
Let me start by saying, I?m looking a J20 pickup with its AMC 360 engine out and in pieces.
As gasoline in the US is near or at in some places, the $2.00 per gallon price,
diesel looks like a inviting and fun long term project.
The following info is what I have gathered during my research and is the basis of my preliminary plan.
Engine and Transmission
I will use a 6.2L GM diesel and TH400 transmission.
The 6.2 will be modernized, using a CUCV intake, slightly larger injectors and performance tuned injector pump.
Some 6.5L parts may find their way my planned 6.2.
It will be naturally aspirated at the beginning, saving $$$ for the other details and components for the rest of the swap.
I would like see 300+ horsepower from this engine
I have chosen a 6.2 because it is a cheap and plentiful engine.
The lack of electronics is a big plus for a swap in an older vehicle.
Lots of cheap mods can be made to make the commonly underpowered 6.2 produce plenty of horsepower.
Also, because the 6.2 share the same engine mounts as a small block Chevy and many folks have swapped in a SBC in a FSJ, physically mounting the engine should be a snap.
Much easy than mounting a 6.9/7.3 Ford or 5.9 Cummings.
The TH400 will be built to handle the torque and horsepower of the 6.2.
Once again, because a TH400 has been used in a FSJ, mounting, crossmember and linkage issues should not be a problem.
Transfercase
Transfercase poses a slight issue, as to which one to use.
Because the 1981 model J20 that I planning to use has a driver?s side drop front axle,
then I would need to use a TC that also has a driver?s side drop.
What transfercase will bolt up to a TH400 with no adapters, can handle the torque of a diesel and have a driver?s side drop?
Now for the little details that no talks about:
Wiring
The 6.2 does not have that much engine wiring.
But, how do I found out about the few wires that exist?
What they are for?
Where do they need to go?
Do I need them all or can I eliminate some?
How/Where do I slice them into the existing FSJ harness?
Fuel
Where is the fuel line need to be on a 6.2?
Is it in the right location for the fuel line entrance into the engine bay of a V8 FSJ?
Will I need an electric fuel pump?
What size/brand would I need?
Cooling
The radiator poses another issue, as it would on any engine swap.
I?m sure I could get a custom rad built for a price, but is there any other options?
Cut the core support to retrofit a stock Chevy unit?
Conclusion
Well, those are all I can think of at this moment.
I hope this creates a good discussion.
Your comments, opinions and flames are welcome.
Your support is more appreciated.
[ May 08, 2004, 03:48 PM: Message edited by: The PIG Smith ]
Tons of room on either side of the engine, save about 200 lbs over a domestic engine, great airflow and low underhood temps, and more HP and torque than my 360 stock. also, 20mpg, hehe. Thoughts?
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