AboutDavid Scott Expertise Questions regarding the advisability of different kinds of modifications to Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker or various kinds of off-road usage. I will not attempt to do more than provide links for questions about other Suzukis such as Vitara, Grand Vitara, etc. I may or may not give generalized advice for newer models, but have no experience regarding newer models, and will not attempt to give more than the most generalized answers for questions regarding vehicles later than '93 manufacture. I will however, if possible, provide a link that will help you contact a professional in your region.
Experience I've been a professional mechanic for over thirty five years, live in the center of the Rocky Mountains, and have been active in exploring the old mining/4wd roads for decades. I've specific experience with Samurai modification, because that's my personal vehicle.
Education/Credentials Thirty five years of advanced, intensive classes for experienced professionals only. Manufacturer seminars and training classes averaging four to six weeks per year. I'm now a professional heavy duty fleet mechanic, and no longer deal with issues such as MIL (check engine) lights
Expert: David Scott Date: 2/29/2008 Subject: What engine will fit?
Question I have a 1988 suzuki sammy with the original 1.3 liter in it,which is kind of slow,will be ok for stock though.Anyway I also have another 88 sammy without a motor,but everythingelse is there.I seen and heard of other engine's being put in with adapter kit's I am sure.Thinking abiout a VW diesel engine,1.6 or V-6.What are you thought's on this process?Is it worth the effort?
Answer I've seen good success with 1600 8 valve transplants, and the VW Diesel is highly thought of. Whether it's worth it is a personal value judgement. Rather than putting in a bigger motor, and subsequently compromizing the longevity of the rest of the drive train, I changed the T-case gearing, and the differential gearing, and put in lockers. That permitted me to use 34" tires and do a wrangler spring over kit. It has more clearance and articulation than a rubicon, and is generally capable of slightly more than a stock rubicon for a total investment of about one fourth as much. BUT, it really won't go much faster than 60. I still get about 27 highway, so that's a good set of compromises for my purposes. It's all a matter of what you want and how bad you want it. Go to izook.com and peruse the links to see what's available and for how much.
scotty
