Hey hows it going, im new to the forum as i mentioned in my introduction post this is my first diesel build. A little background ive been around jeeps for years ive had two TJ Rubicons and a TJ Unlimited Rubicon. Ive always had my eye on a Comanche. Just recently i sold my Denali pickup and decided i must aquire one. But the fact remains i have been spoiled by the creature comforts of my pre existing vehicles. So tthe build vehicle must accomidate some of those items.

So 2 weeks ago i found a really good deal on a Comanche long bed. An yes i wanted the long bed for multiple reasons. I think done up right they are pretty sexy looking like a newer Toyo Tacoma TRD off road trucks. Also im a motorcycle track day rider and i need a truck i can grab and go, toss the bike in the back and roll. "with the tail gate up"! It is also a 2wd with i totally cool with that, it has a AW4 which is a solid trans and before i do a 4 link on it with a 4inch lift this give me time to familiarize my self with the engine swap.
Deming this thread,
NOT SO PRACTICAL Comanche Diesel

The Build vehicle: 88 Jeep Comanche Pioneer factory 4.0 renix auto 2wd truck; Super clean underneath i was very impressed. Does have some surface rust on the roof and multiple spots.. nothing that cant be blocked and primered. mileage 155k 1000.00

The Diesel Swap:83 Om617 300D mileage 200k+ engine was pulled out of a running car that was sent to the junk yard. The blow by test isnt possible and it is leaking from the valve cover. air cleaner is missing but the turbo inlet shaft play is tight. also missing power steering lines and oil cooler. which is fine 300.00

The Donor/ Parts Getter; 97 Jeep Cherokee Classic, I will be using this to acquire all the parts for the Comanche build leading up to the Front end conversion and dash conversion that will be taken from this jeep. 650.00 with 198k bought yesterday will post pictures in the next few days. still gathering parts

Over All Plans for the Truck:

• Physical exam On the 3.0L supplied by Mercedessource.com if the engine checks out once i adjust the valve and check the compression. then we continue with the injector pop test, new glow plugs,timing kit, and all new seals. if not.. we scout another>>> mean while..

• pull old renix out retrofit diesel into Comanche, once the engine mounts are mocked up remove and get ready for ..

• 97 front end conversion... will have everything mounted in time for ....

• Paint! , Im tossed between two colors but most likely will be the new 2018 Calvary Blue used on the Toyota Pickups. the truck will have painted the body ,door jams, under the hood, and engine bay event the top and inside edges of the bed. Front window will be pulled due to a leak and a new one with new style molding will be replaced along with the rear window

• while the truck is off for paint ill take the intake and exhaust manifolds valve cover and power steering cover to be Powder Coated by Exotics Matte Red or Destoryer grey.

• As Far As the 4wd conversion goes it will be packed into the corner. will be running the Ironman4x4fab 4 link once converted. Already have a NV3550 5 spd might as well get the step up from the ax15. sourcing out a NV241OR transfer case. as we speak. and the pedals etc. axles i havent decided on yet.

• 97 Interior swap with the creature comforts. modernized electronic- 120 volt plugins for fast-chargers. heated steering wheel- carbon wrapped. Seat swap.. found a set of S2000 seats but most likely will use a set of 2003 acyra CL type S seated that are factory heated and just wire up the bottons.

will updated as this build moves on i literally has purchased both jeep and have to pick up in 2 different citys along with the engine thats in a different city as well.

 

So I'm still in parts collection mode..
Picked up my 97 Cherokee last week
After 3 hours of driving I have my 88 Comanche LB today.
still have a few more items I need to inquire before I start this build.