In about two years (or next major problem) I'm going to upgrade the drive-train, but want to start getting parts now. Mostly I want to be able to go 60 on the highway, but also it is getting harder to find parts. I also need a bit more power, because my jeep doesn't do well going up the mountains, with 4 people, and a small trailer packed with camping gear.
I wish I could keep the T-19 trans and the Dana 18 xfer, especially since I'm having them rebuilt right now (by a guy who really knows what he is doing). However, I don't think they'll hold up well, especially in the hills, where I want to go (I live at 2,000, and need to get up to 9,000 feet to get away from the heat on the weekends).
Here is the combination I'm thinking about, after research on this newsgroup and other places. The main thing I'm worried about is all of the electronics required. I've got an elec. ignition on my L-head, but that was cheap enough to buy a spare if I'm ever wondering if it goes bad (instead of having to take it to someone who can test it).
Chevy 4.3L V6 Vortec Engine T400R Auto trans (actually I think the newer 4L60-E is what most recommend) Dana 300 xfer case, straight through model Dana 30 rear end, standard (not offset) Dana 30 front
3.73 gears in front and rearI was first looking at the older models, with the carbed engine and the non-electric auto trans. However, I think I'd run into the same problems with them, not being able to find parts, and I've heard that those were poor designs. Does anyone make a good V6 carbed engine, or has recently? How about an auto trans. without a computer? I guess I could go with manual, but I'd rather have an auto, and it seems nice not to mess with clutch linkages. I like the fact that this auto is an OD version also, since I want to cruise on the highway. I don't want to go over 60 though, I'm not crazy!
I know I can get a carbed 350, V8, and find parts for it. However, that seems like more work because I have to change the radiator, and it doesn't fit as well (I love having lots of room to work under the hood).
I put a 225 Buick V6 in a 1949 CJ2A I used to have. Didn't really like it, but I also didn't change anything else (trans, xfer, axles) and ended up blowing the T-19, and still had low top-speed (same gears).
Any opinions greatly appreciated!