jdt79

I am looking for a 22r engine to build up for my 79 pickup. I'm in central ar. Im having no luck finding the early model engine. Which leads me to other concerns, if I can't find the parts for my build that is available and affordable should I just go with a Chevy 4.3 or larger so I can have the opportunity to build and make repairs with parts that are in stock at my local part store at a good price. I'm just wanting to play hard and save money and down time if needed. I love the little truck but it's so hard to build when you can't get parts to build without being ripped off. All advice will be appreciated. Also can you even get more than 150 go out of a 22r? Again I just want to play not hunt and repair.

kawazx636

iTrader: (3)

If you want a powerhouse engine, the 22R isn't your engine. If you want a durable engine that you'll not have to continually repair then the 22R is your engine. It is certainly possible to build a fairly powerful 22R, but it does take some building. Fortunately, they are perhaps the easiest truck engines in the world to rebuild. I'm getting about 125-130 HP out of the 22R that I built for my truck and it is adequate for the size of the truck and what I do with it. It's certainly not going win any NHRA Nationals, but I don't hold people up on the highway and it scoots around town nicely. If you are looking to get a 22R go with the later models (1985+). You'll have much better parts availability for the later models, particularly the heads. 1981-1984 heads are becoming more and more scarce, but you can get a brand new head casting for 1985+ engines with no problems. Also, the perk with getting a later model 22R (as opposed to a Chevy swap) is that it'll bolt right into your existing drive train. There's no need to modify engine mounts, swap the tranny or lengthen/shorten the drive shafts. Basically the only thing that you'll need to change under the hood is your exhaust manifold which you would likely be doing anyway.

I'm also a Toyota purist - if I'm going to put anything else under the hood of my truck, it'll be a Toyota engine. Shoot, I'll be getting the new Tacoma in the Spring and my 2005 Tundra is so beat up that it's likely not worth trading. The engine runs really strong so I've even thought about trying to take the 2UZ-FE out of it and stuffing it under the hood of my 1983 Pickup.

skypilot

iTrader: (1)

Get a set of AA adapters to an SBC and Th350 to RF1A. I would use a detuned 305 to not shatter the xfer case. No more than 200hp.

jdt79

I agree with that. Not a big fan of a 305, they have a bad habit of cam bearings going out. I have a 283 that I pulled out of dirt track car . It is so much easier to go that route . I would rather spend my money at the machine shop on balance and porting. Like I said earlier just want to play and not have to hunt and spend my time on a gamble of will it stay together when the little pedal is on the floor. Also why have high range 4wd and not enough power to use it.