Narrowscopeofreality wrote:Interesting turn of events, i've got an opituniity to get my hands on a complete 3F w/box ect, running schmick.
The B is getting a bit tired, blowing a bit of blue smoke, and with having to replace the clutch anyway, would the 3F be a worthwhile conversion? I can get the 3F for the near the same price as a new clutch. More ponies and torque, the only part i'm hesitant about is straying away from the diesel.
Anyone have any thoughts?
For what it's worth, I wouldn't go for the 3F. It won't be a straight forward swap and the petrol engine will use buckets of fuel and run ordinary on hills. I know the price may be attractive now, but you will pay later.
If you are looking for more power look at a 3b and maybe turbo or 13bt with factory turbo. I have lived with my bog standard 3B for about 8 years now, driven as far as Airlie Beach (from Brisbane) and now do competitions. Only now am I worried about a bit more power as it would be handy in comps and to tow the trailer (with comp tyres and spares etc) to the comps. Assessing all options and even buying a mint rebuilt 2H with DTS turbo, I have decided the best option will be to turbo the 3B. Why? Less weight, easy to run, cannot be killed (when properly taken care of), cheap to run, great power down low, less likely to put strain on other compenents and break diffs, axles, CV's etc. If you're dead set on petrol, think LPG or EFI.
Go 4x4ing with someone who has an old carb petrol engine and see for yourself, then decide which way you want to go.
Just my opinion, take it or leave it.