[Christ]

So I was browsing my local craigslist, and this is somewhat pre-emptive, as I haven't actually taken possession of the item yet, but I found an old (early 90's) self contained diesel engine unit from a reefer trailer... the mechanic I spoke to said it was probably about 40 HP, and could easily benefit from a turbocharger properly suited for the application (if it needed it).

I spoke awhile back to the idea of swapping in a diesel into my MiniVan, and found that it would take approximately 36 HP to make the van go 65 MPH. If this engine is 40 HP, it should have a decent chance at holding 55 up hills and such, I assume.

I'm going today to pick it up with the trailer, and pics will come soon after, but provided all is smooth, the engine is a 4 cylinder Mercedes, in running condition.

After some preliminary measurements are taken, I'll make sure it fits in the van's engine bay, then check local and state laws on the swap, to make sure everything is "kosher" so to speak. As long as everything is a go, I'll start gathering the parts, like the 5 speed transmission, etc.

Unfortunately, this means that the manual valve body automatic is probably a lost venture, at least for the time being.

Oh - the cost of the engine... well, I'll get to that when I post pics.