Jump to content

Alaskan On/Offroad Comanche Longbed build


Recommended Posts

I acquired a 86 Comanche MJ about a year ago and I'v been collecting parts and such to start the build. I'm finally getting close to starting the build. Here is a list of what I have so far.

 

Nissan LD28t 2.8l I6 diesel engine

a whole 99 XJ Cherokee donor

ford 8.8 independent rear diff

ford 8.8 independent front diff

 

I have some more things as well such as headlights and tail lights wheels and tires

 

things I need advice on choosing:

 

Transmission.....this has proven difficult because I have a old Nissan diesel and can't seem to find a fitting 4 speed auto or 5 speed manual that can be adapted.

Transfer case....if I can get a used atlas 2 speed for less than 1200 I might be interested ;p 

independent front and rear suspension

steering (might be using XJ for that) 

 

anyway lots more to list for both lists I'm mostly interested in what people thing in terms of powertrain. (tranny and 4wd)

 

I will post pics as soon as start the build

 

If anyone know where or how I could adapt a Ford or Chevy transmission to fit a L series Nissan motor let me know.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Sound like a good build, have at it. You won't be able to salvage squat steering wise from the xj if your going ifs. Or is it TTB? And it won't be the cheapest but most fab shops have the ability to "splice" a bellhousing. so long as you have one of each.  

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I could go TTB but I think that I will end up going full IFS. I never thought about spicing bell housings that is a fantastic idea I do have one of each and I have a tig welder as well. the only problem I see with me doing it my self is that the housing is cast aluminum I believe and cast doesn't make a pretty or strong weld as it has small air bubbles. I guess I will take it to a machinist and see what they advise.  thanks

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Here is my truck. Last fall I spent a little time trying to rust proof it. it has had some body work that was poorly done. The hood and fenders will have to be replaced and I have a 97+ front end.IMG_0625.JPG

 

IMG_0626.JPG

 

I don't have a back window and am in need of one. I don't want a divided window either solid glass please.IMG_0624.JPG

 

 

 

 

Here is my Engine. Its my Nissan LD28 2.8l Diesel, right before I started to tare it down.

IMG_0623.JPG

 

IMG_0627.JPG

vacuum injection pump I still don't know if it needs to be rebuilt. however I will likely rebuild it anyway.

IMG_0628.JPG

 

IMG_0622.JPG

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Think the Nissan/Datsun Maxima had this same diesel engine in the early 80's.  Not sure what transmission they used.  Have seen 4 or 5 of the diesel Maxima's for sale on Craigslist over the last 6 months or so.  Suspect the Jatco auto trans was just a 3 speed, but who knows it may have been a 4 speed auto.  Something to look at if you have not done it by now.  Should be a good runner once you rebuild it.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Think the Nissan/Datsun Maxima had this same diesel engine in the early 80's.  Not sure what transmission they used.  Have seen 4 or 5 of the diesel Maxima's for sale on Craigslist over the last 6 months or so.  Suspect the Jatco auto trans was just a 3 speed, but who knows it may have been a 4 speed auto.  Something to look at if you have not done it by now.  Should be a good runner once you rebuild it.

Most of them came with the same transmission as the 280zx which is a 5 speed manual. some had the 4 speed jatco but it was more rare because these vehicles were made for economy.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...
  • 2 weeks later...

Lol I never noticed the grill was upside down. its all busted up and i assume the previous owner put it in and i have a 97+ header and fenders for it.  and i havent seen any other nissan ld engines on CL up here there have been some sd series engines or maybe i just missed them.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...