If you're worried about the condition of the engine in the 88, then give Luke aka,DEMON44 here on CK5 a PM. He has a mechanically injected 6.5L crate diesel engine (with the latest heads and block from AM General) fitted with a Banks Sidewinder turbo kit, mated to a 4l80e with a stand alone controller, and electric speedo NP205 (use it with your factory speedometer) for sale at an extremely good price. He is from Calgary, Alberta, and has a ton of knowledge on engine in general (works for Waterous Mechanical Services, mostly on heavy diesel equipment / semi trucks)
I've done a few gasser to 6.2L diesel swaps, and would be happy to answer any questions you've got.
As far as repairing the rust goes on the 88 -- Don't waste your time! I had an 88 in similar condition, and while I did have all the sheet metal I needed to repair it, I quickly discovered it was WAY more work than I could possible have imagined (Rene, you can say "I told ya so" right about now!). Just found an 85 in excellent condition the other day, and I am just starting my frame up build now.
I am from near Edmonton, Alberta btw.
I've done a few gasser to 6.2L diesel swaps, and would be happy to answer any questions you've got.
As far as repairing the rust goes on the 88 -- Don't waste your time! I had an 88 in similar condition, and while I did have all the sheet metal I needed to repair it, I quickly discovered it was WAY more work than I could possible have imagined (Rene, you can say "I told ya so" right about now!). Just found an 85 in excellent condition the other day, and I am just starting my frame up build now.
I am from near Edmonton, Alberta btw.
