what is a common semi-easy engine swap for my 85? besides a chevy 350. id like a little more power but i also would like to stay as light as possible and not have to worry about getting custom front springs and i would like to keep the yota trans and t case.

 

lexus v8?

 

Thats what i did. The Lexus V8 is almost 100kg lighter than the 2.4 turbo diesel I took out!
I used the Lexus auto transmission, the Toyota transfer case bolted directly to it.

 

There is not such thing as an easy engine swap. If you want to stay around the same weight I think your best option is a 2RZ or 3RZ out of a Tacoma. You have to use a different transmission but you can adapt to your case(s). Not easy, but no engine swap is.

 

hhmmm is the 85 different then an 86.. i thought the 2rz bolted to the stock trans and pretty much bolted in so to say...
help me out please.. im 18 and i have the 2rz stock nd i wanna put it in thanks man =]

 

I think the Search would be the best possible motor swap. Tons of power, and super reliable.