LUVTruck.com

will the older trooper v6 motors match my current tranny in my 4x4?

Older Trooper V6s (1989ish and somewhere into the early 90s) are GM 60 degree motors, 2.8L and I believe they used the 3.1L version later as well. The bolt pattern on the tranny is not the same as the inline 4s used in LUVs and Troopers, so no it will not bolt up. It should be possible though to take a 5 spd from the donor Trooper along with the motor if you are up to doing a bit more fabbing of trans mounts. It would also mean getting a shortened driveline built for the rear. The front shaft may have to be built or it might be possible to use the one from the Trooper. I've heard on early Trooper 5spds (84-86, some 87s) you can just use the shaft from the Trooper on the LUV, but 88 and later troops have a different front axle, so it may not be so easy.

If you are thinking of going V6 this route, I suggest getting a 3.4L instead of the 2.8L or 3.1L. Same motor outside, more ponies inside. For bolt on motors to the LUV trans, you are stuck with Isuzu 4 banger motors, and even then I believe the 2.6L requires some finess to fit.

My friend had a trooper with a V-6 in it, and he doesnt reccomend the engine. Hes had alot of trouble with it, but maybe thats just from the way he drives it.

good god, you don't want a 2.8. it's often been called the worst motor ever made...most seem to only have around 90hp. if you wanted to go the 60* v6 route the 3.4 crate engine would be much better. even better would be a 4.3, as it will fit just as well and has better aftermarket, as well as more horsepower

as for actual isuzu v6 engines, i've heard the 3.2 and 3.5 are quite reliable

Would have to agree the 2.8's are nothing but trouble...

yes....never put a 2.8 chevy V-6 in anything, but the lake.....

_________________
03Cobra