Sup guys, I'm new here...

[TxsizeK5]

So, right now I have a K5, but me and my buddy are looking into getting a cheap 88Trooper.

Can anyone give me info, such as engine, drivetrain, etc.
We're looking to make this an offroad only vehicle- ie. cage, hacked roof, spooled or locker, etc.

Any info can be of great help... pics too! Thanks!

[Independent4x]

88'S HAVE THE 2.6l 4CYL.

look for an 89-91 ( same body style) w/ the GM V-6. those use the 2.8L chevy v-6 ...same as s-10, cherokee, etc of the similar vintage. same motor tech. applies...crossovers etc.

these are very good platforms to buld on.....boxed ladder frame, etc. Swap an axle and or motor in it and chop some sheetmetal and hit the trail.

the body is nice and narrow at around 60", making it a good size for the trail.

best of luck on your project.

[TxsizeK5]

What are options for axle/engine swaps?

I might just keep the 4banger it has and go lower gearing if new axles are swapped in.

Planning to chop top and roll cage and gutt interior to save on some weight.

[Grampa]

IMO stay away from the 4 cyl... far far away. I've sunk over 3 G's into mine trying to wring out every ounce of power possible and keep it naturally asperated (no turbo or charger) and its still a dog, not to mention IIRC its actually a few pounds heavier than the 2.8 V6. For rear lockers, a Lincoln works great, or you can throw away your hard-earned cash on the only other one avail, the bling bling arb:eek: Front wagoneer axles up to 79 are pretty much the same width as the rear axle and are pass side drop, and you can get up to 5:38 gearing for both.

A big misconception I've run into is that these rigs are light; not so. Mine with only myself and recovery gear are pushing the 4000lb mark. I'd say go the way of Matt and soon to be myself, with a SBC or 4.3....

Just a bit of info, HTH

[Lil Uzi]

If I am allowed to comment with respect to my elders....

IMHO, if your limiting to off road only, and you rock crawl only, you dont need the 4.3 6 or 8 cyls. They just break other stock shiazzz. Thats good thoughts on the 2.8, the parts are cheaper for sure. The 160 hp 3.4 is supposed to be a drop in ;) There are links to Olds and Caddy EFI DOHC V-8s swaps, if you are really into it. If you thirst for power, and your swapping axles, yeah, then the whole equation changes. If your gonna rip the engine and electronics out to swap in cast iron push-rod American, then get ANY year, or one with a blown motor..........
Look for an 87 with a cracked head......