Looking at 89 Dodge Raider with 3.0-any experience?: Grassroots Motorsports forum: Grassroots Motorsports Magazine

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Feb. 25, 2010 12:24 p.m. mattmacklind SuperDork

I've always wanted one of these:

http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/2746/3821/6864410013_large.jpg

I'm looking at one right now that needs an engine, its not the one in the picture but may as well be. I've sourced a reman'd 3.0 Mitsu V6 engine for $1880.00 with shipping and a one year warrantee. The original engine is partially dismantled but could likely be rebuilt, too. I'm a little sketchy iont he story.

I think that is a pretty good deal. Any experience with these engines or vehicles? They seem to be becoming more and more scarce as time goes by, and parts aren't the easiest thing to find.
Feb. 25, 2010 12:25 p.m. mattmacklind SuperDork

Sorry, had to:

http://www.adclassix.com/images/87dodgeraider4x4.jpg
Feb. 25, 2010 1:26 p.m. MadScientistMatt Dork

One thing that came to mind is the engines seem to like to eat valve stem seals, resulting in huge clouds of smoke.
Feb. 25, 2010 1:37 p.m. turboswede SuperDork

Matt, it wasn't the valve stem seals, it was the guides on the SOHC 3.0. There was a TSB to fix them and most by now should have gotten them fixed for free (since it causes emissions issues)

Otherwise the 3.0 SOHC is an uninspiring motor. The later, larger versions of that motor used in Mitsu trucks is a bit more interesting as are the versions used in the Eclipse.

The Raider was just a rebadged Mitsu Pajero (JDM/ROW)/Montero (USDM):

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Raider
Feb. 25, 2010 1:44 p.m. EvanB HalfDork

I was just looking into these a few days ago (moreso the 4-door Montero though). I did read on a forum that the turbo 4-cyl from a Starion/Conquest drops right in.
Feb. 25, 2010 1:49 p.m. turboswede SuperDork

Sure, they used the 2.6 overseas, it was their go to motor for a while. However, I wouldn't do that as they suck monkey balls. If you want a 4, use the Eclipse/Talon/Laser/Lancer Evo unit. Maybe find a way to build a 2.4L DOHC turbo motor versus the 2.0L. Or, I'd just bolt in a DOHC 3.0 twin-turbo motor from a Stealth/3000GT or build up a 3.8L DOHC MIVEC motor and have a little fun :)
Feb. 25, 2010 2:13 p.m. leigerreign New Reader

If it uses a 6g72 DOHC motor....a 6G72 or 6G74 will drop right in. Same block with a taller deck height and larger mains.

A 6g74 is a 3.5L (what im building). Can use the 6G72 TT heads and manifolds for alot of fun!

The Montero has a 3.5L option available.....its the 6G74 block. That would be one cool SUV to own. Someone on 3SI twin turbo'd one....it was sick.
Feb. 25, 2010 3:45 p.m. minimac Dork

I had two(at different times) '91 Monteros w/ the 3.0. while not fast, they both had excellent torque for off roading or towing, and were comfortable turnpike cruisers. The only problem was there was a recall on the balancer bolt-it shears, and neither of mine had been replaced. I had a heck of a time drilling and tapping when it sheared off. The balancer is a monster and the cast keyway is brittle. Other than that, both of mine were fantastic vehicles. If I could find another in excellent shape, I'd buy it in a heartbeat.
Feb. 25, 2010 3:47 p.m. MadScientistMatt Dork

Sorry, wrong valvetrain part. That's usually what it is when you see a 3.0 burning oil, or was if they were recalled
Feb. 25, 2010 9:00 p.m. DrBoost Dork

I always like them, then I discovered Wranglers. More better.
Feb. 25, 2010 10:31 p.m. EvanB HalfDork

DrBoost wrote:

I always like them, then I discovered Wranglers. More better.

And more monies
Feb. 26, 2010 12:26 a.m. Vigo Reader

the 3.0 SOHC is an uninspiring motor

I was just typing over in this thread: http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/i-feel-sorry-for-this-neon-acr/19134/pa...

about how i know a guy who's built some sohc 3.0s in the 500whp region.

That motor is wonderful imo. Sure, its not fast as a stock motor in that vehicle, but the powerband is pleasant and the motor is smooth. The bottom end is nearly bulletproof and the only problem the top ends ever had were sloppy valve guides. Hopefully they have already been fixed by now. Once replaced, the problem does not reoccur.

Im actually swapping that motor into my minivan soon (with a 5spd manual and a roots blower). Already got the whole setup sitting around in various places. Just need to piece it all together in the van
Feb. 26, 2010 5:44 a.m. ignorant SuperDork

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=94

mitsubishi forum.

http://trucks.suite101.com/article.cfm/2010_mitsubishi_triton_gls_light_truck_review come to america nowz

NOWZ http://wardsauto.com/ar/mitsubishi_maufacturing_future_100113/
Feb. 26, 2010 7:20 p.m. Appleseed Dork

My buddy had 2 engines eat themselves to death, Pizza the Hut style.