AMC engine swap 4.2l

[kcabbie]

I have an '84 with a 4.1l inline 6 that Is holding me back in power. If it was an earlier modle, without the intrigated intake manifolds, i would be extremely excited to hook it up. But i'm not that lucky.
I found a '76 amc 4.2l 258 inline six. As far as i can tell, they look almost identical. But they were put in jeeps? If anyone has any info on this engine, please let me know. If it's a direct swap, and i can interchange parts from the chevy 4.1 or other L6's then It will be built up ready to drop in.
Thanks guys.

[lilpoindexter]

Why not just drop in a pre-integral head chevy straight 6? or a chevy big block?

[kcabbie]

This engine is complete and he doesnt want that much at all. That is what i plan(ned) on doing. Money is just kind of tight right now.
Also I was curious if these amc engines were better in performance/reliability wise.
Thanks for the reply!

[cableguy0]

Your going to spend a ton in doing the swap. The bellhousing is different. None of the accessories will interchange. The mounts are different. Its definately not a bolt in deal. If your looking for more power why not dump the inline 6 and find a cheap 350

[justinburnett]

I just yesterday saw a running 350 still in a truck that he'd let you start and drive, then pull for you and send you on your way for 300 dollars. That's way less that you'd ever pay trying to do an off-brand swap. Just check the craigslist in your area and keep your eyes open. A good deal will come by. Also look for cars/trucks that have bad trannys, or have been wrecked but still run. You should be good to go under 500 for sure.

[MalibuSSwagon]

If money is tight, and your engine runs fine as-is, I would leave it be until your cash flow improves. Swapping a used engine that has possible hidden problems is just asking for trouble.

[N2TRUX]

Waste of time and money is the short answer here.

[kcabbie]

Thanks guys. And the reason i don't want to just drop in a v8 is because I like to be unique i guess. I don't want 300 hp or a blazzing fast truck. I just want something that will get up and go, and right now my 4.1l is having a hard time with that task sometimes.
Also, about the money and waiting. It's just how I am and probably am going to be for the next couple of years. Everymonth I have some extra to do with as i like, and i would like to get a complete other engine that i can start going through one task at a time until it's ready to drop in and go.
Thanks for all the replies guys, I will not be getting it!

[Big Port Jimmy 6]

Find a 292 and start a long term build with that extra. Jay

[1LowToy]

I just got back from getting my taxes done. He did mention a slow car tax credit. I tried to go with my 82 mercedes but the tax man came up with his 62 Pontiac slant 4. I think mine may be just a lil faster.