96 prism sleeper build Options

[do7d]

before i even start this- i know there's a lot of cars that are faster and a lot cooler than the prism. i've grown rather attached to my beater, and would like to see what's possible for such a vehicle. if your comment has to do with buying a different starter vehicle, or anything of that sort, don't waste your time. just hit the "back" button on your browser and continue on your web bullying way.

i also know such a project will take time and money. both of which i have a bit of, and am willing to expend. basically, i have some space, some tools, some help, and want to make my ****box a force to be reconned with.

i have done some research and found some 4dr geo tracker/suzuki sidekick has the same wheelbase, all wheel disc brakes, and 4wd. my goal is to swap the aforementioned goodies into said prism. there is quite an aftermarket following of sidekick/trackers in the offroad scene, parts to support higher torque in the drivetrain are available. i've found they (the tracker/sidekick) use the "s" series engine, requiring a 5sfe or 3sgte to be able to bolt to the awd trans. i know i will need a bit more hp to make the 4wd move as quick a fwd, so i believe the 3sgte would be my best bet. clearly, i will be upgrading the turbo- also requiring a build-up of internals. i have read 100's of build-ups of 3sgte so i have an idea abt what im getting into as far as engine misc.

the reason i have chosen the tracker/sidekick as a platform to base this off of is not only because of wheelbase, but cost of parts. i can find junked 4wd trackers/sidekicks for less than $1000.

my questions are as follows:

1. are there any fundamental flaws in my thought process for the build? are there any red flags going up in anyone's mind pertaining to why this project could not happen?

2. are there any suggestions as to alternate engine/trans combos i should be considering?

any constructive input is greatly appreciated-

thanks in advance.

[do7d]

i thank everyone for input-

dr tweak: the tracker engine is an s-series, 5sfe and 3sgte should "bolt on". i also enjoyed your $.03 comment. well done

i have custom aluminum fabrication for cost of materials, and some of my time on CAD.

i have never even heard of someone SEEING a corolla all-trac here in the states. between that and most celica all-tracs already being pulled from yards for rebuilds, etc. at least anything within 150mi of where i live. (central pennsylvania) this was the main reason for the tracker part-out. if anyone has a lead on a corolla all-trac (or just the drivetrain) i would be most interested. i will gladly drive just abt anywhere i can get not requiring a passport

btw i am looking for more of a rally/autocross type setup. i commute a fair amount on back roads, full of hills and turns. no off-road, but i'd like to have better traction in snow and wet weather. i have read in some threads abt using celica suspension parts for best handling performance, however i have not gone into as great depths with that as i have with engine/trans setups

please continue with ideas/input! this is exactly what i needed.

thanks!

This post has been edited by do7d: Jan 2, 2008 - 8:32 PM