Hey guys I've been struggling with some issues with my I6 and I'm not putting any more money into it so looking into other options. The cheapest option would be just getting another I6 with lower miles. I could also go with a V8 conversion (350) but its a lot of work. The last option which I am thinking of going with is going to a diesel, obviously the best option would be a 4BT but they are about $3500 just for the engine so that's out of the questions. Fortunately there is a cheaper option that retains the factory transmission/t-case, this is a Mercedes 5 cyl turbo diesel out of a '80-'85. With the engine and all adaptors you can do the swap for under $2000 depending the deal you get on the engine.
As I have very little experience working on engines I wanted to get the group opinion. My Jeep isn't my daily driver so I don't mind spending the time doing the swap. There are websites that sell the required adaptors. I would plan on getting a running Mercedes for around $1000, take the engine out and scrap the rest to recoup some costs.
This idea still formulating in my head as I only found out recently I will need to rebuild the lower end of my I6 to stop the oil leak. Am I crazy for considering this? Benefits are lots of low end torque, better MPG and obviously the "cool" factor of having a diesel powered jeep.