Ok so I have been trying to do some research to pick the right motor for my truck, 87' 2wd reg cab. Post if you see any errors or post your opinion. For the swap I have been looking at 7m, 1jz, 2jz.

First choice was the 7mgte. I can buy them all day long on eBay for $1500-$2000. Perfect for the budget. Parts are readily available and the swap has been done before. From what I understand a little more cash can squeeze out some decent power. Blown head gasket is known problem but you just have to re-torque and/or replace gasket (maybe copper). Transmission of choice unknown. R154? What came stock with this motor?

Next choice is 1jz single turbo followed by twin turbo. Available on eBay $2k-$3k. Parts are harder to come by, but not impssible. Jdm market online plus select parts of 2jz make replacement parts accessible. Turbo failure is a known problem, but simple fix. The engine is argued as superior to the 7m, but some feel it is not. Personally I don't know enough about either engine to make an argument. Swap has been done before. Dont know about the trans either.

No one complains about the 2jz except the price. The gettrag is expensive but seems like such a good option. Prices on eBay run around $7k-$9k! The automatic trans is available for much less but i don't want an auto. After a little searching i found that many companies are selling the 2jz mount to either a w58 or r154. With preference to the r154. The price with r154 option is comparable to the 1jz, slightly more. This seems like the best option but I'm still trying to find more info. Many Dog the r154 saying it can't handle the 2jzgtte, what do you think?

My truck is light and the power of the 7mgte is probable more than enough power for me. Money is always a concern but I would like the 2jzgtte/r154 if this is a good hybrid.

 

Im assuming those are island prices.
-In your decision making process understand that your truck only weighs 2400(ruff about), thats over a 1000lbs lighter than a supra, so traction can/will be an issue.
-R154 is a beefy and heavy tranny really made for high torque. w58 is able to handle 350hp. More than any stock 7mgte will put out.
-Our trucks have a tight nose, and while doable, putting a decent I/C wont be easy or attractive.
-A N/A 7M produces 190 factory hp, double what you truck has now, and is cheaper to buy. With the money you save you can bump that to 225hp, and have a fun, reliable, fast truck that wont eat up your tires, or at least by mistake.

 

I fully understand that traction will be a problem. But Im having a hard time turning down the 2jzgte because it's too much power. Doesn't that sound crazy, too much power.

If money was no object would the 7mge w/ mods still be your choice?

Thanks