Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 94,95 compared to 96-98

[Niro]

Ok just a real quick dumb question here



but is the only thing really separating the year trucks with the exception of some interior stuff, the 215 pump?



Like say for instance I bought a 95 (because they are easily had) and its a stick too

and all I did was swap the pump outs(for a 215 pump), would I essentially now have the same potential as the 96+ 12v 215 pumps



or are there other things I should watch out for?

are the drivetrains just as strong or weaker or



what would be things I should look out for

Im stronly debating this as the 94-95s are rediculously cheap in comparison and I can get a 215 pump from a friend for $400



thanks guys

 

[Cooker]

IMHO 97's and newer have better brakes.



96's and newer have 47re auto trannies instead of 47rh trannies, since you are buying a manual this does not matter.



98's had nicer interiors IMHO.



If you can buy a 215 pump for $400 buy it and sell it to me for $500

 

[Glen Pratt]

'98 and newer trucks have crossover steering type drag link and tie rod as opposed to the inverted "Y" set-up on the '97 and earlier trucks.

 

[Niro]

'98 and newer trucks have crossover steering type drag link and tie rod as opposed to the inverted "Y" set-up on the '97 and earlier trucks.

Im sorry Im not familiar with steering components and suspension etc,

I would have to assume this is an advantage over the others or??

 

[Willys]

The crossover style on 98 trucks is better. You can swap the parts onto the older trucks though, there are some very good detailed threads here, complete with part numbers. You'll probably want to check all the steering and front axle components before you buy- but chances are they will need replacement. Check ball joints and hub bearings, tie rods, track bar, etc for play. You might as well just plan on replacing them... this is for a 4x4 truck by the way.



What are you planning on doing with this truck? Why do you want the 215 pump? I've heard in some other threads that the 160 and 180 pumps are still very capable to a point.

 

[Bob4x4]

Ok just a real quick dumb question here



but is the only thing really separating the year trucks with the exception of some interior stuff, the 215 pump?



Like say for instance I bought a 95 (because they are easily had) and its a stick too

and all I did was swap the pump outs(for a 215 pump), would I essentially now have the same potential as the 96+ 12v 215 pumps



or are there other things I should watch out for?

are the drivetrains just as strong or weaker or



what would be things I should look out for

Im stronly debating this as the 94-95s are rediculously cheap in comparison and I can get a 215 pump from a friend for $400



thanks guys

The injectors are different also



Bob

 

[tgrfan2]

Being the owner of a 95 and 98, I definitely vote for the 98 QC 12V. Suspension is better and has held up longer. Brakes are better. It was nearly as strong stock as my 95 with the plate. Just adding a #6 to it made it stronger than a 2003 HO and a chipped 04 D/A. Hopefully in a few weeks I can tell you how a 98 with DTT feels. Then again if you would like a 98 with a bum automatic to convert to a manual... ... ...

My wife really loves the Mega Cab!