I just ran across the 3.6 article. I'm sure it would be pricey. What makes it interesting is that even though the current generation narrow angle GM v6 is a powerhouse compared to the 54* and 60* v6's of just 15 years ago, this 4 cyl industrial motor is capable of more power than many of the old 'musclecars' that are so revered.
Talk about whatever you want, it's my thread and I see no reason to limit the discussion. I like oddball and nothing struck me as more oddball than a 4 cyl (normally a reason to NEED a swap) that makes as much or more power as the V6 it could replace.
Not sure practicality is a good criteria for most non-stock motor swaps, some just go easier than others. And none of these are really good options if changing out a stock motor is going to be a struggle. The 3.6 will require some headscratching. Since it's not a car motor, it may be easier to convert to carb than even an LS type V8, but without more info...?
The 3.7 boat motor, on the other hand, has a few issues (bellhousing is not exactly a straight bolt up but it's minor, adapting a regular alternator, dropping compression, etc.) but is already a carb motor (4v quadrajet) and the distributor is related to the 4 cyl from the Chevy ll, I think. Still, it requires work to fit it.
Hotrodding the 4.3 is, as you say, the most economical. With fitting in a same year V8 with stock style TBI (or CPI?) being the next cheapest and practical. I think MMusicmans carbed V8 might cost a little more due to buying a new 4v/headers/HEI.
As for finding a mechanic, most seem to want easy repair work. That doesn't seem to include 20-30 year old crusty vans with brittle plastic. Geez, the last mechanic I went to with the van, just to mount tires I bought, they damaged my rockers with the two post lift.
A rebuild shop, if the 4.3 is beyond them, why would you trust them with anything?
