EA82 in an EA81

[Ryanb]

Can it be done? Whats involved if I just use the EA82 tranny? Do the motor mounts line up? Electrical? Starter, disty? Etc.

[Snowman]

It has been done. Motor mounts should bolt right up. You'd probably need to get a 5-speed swap kit from Bratsrus, with the modified shifters and tranny crossmember. The electrical stuff should be a cakewalk if it's a carbed EA82, and not too difficult if it's SPFI. The starter from the EA82 should be used. I've been told that the EA82 disty is pretty close to the brake master cylinder, and there isn't much clearance between the rocker covers and frame rails.

[carfreak85]

You can use the 4 speed manual from the EA81 if you want to save a little green, but why not upgrade while you do the swap. Use the search function to find one of the threads that has more details.

[ShawnW]

Ya can but why? The ea81 is alot more bulletproof and the gain from all the work is minimal.

[Ryanb]

Thanks for the info. I was actually loking for an EA81 engine but cant find one. I have to EA82's so I thought I might swap.

I actually already have a 5spd tranny from an EA82 so it sounds like it wouldnt be too difficult. I'm off, its this or the ocean engine.

[spanky_pete]

Ya can but why? The ea81 is alot more bulletproof and the gain from all the work is minimal.

 

Because two cams are better than one of course!

[mcbrat]

my 87 wagon with hydro-lifter ea81 and weber kicks butt....

 

EA81 all the way....................