I have the opportunity to purchase a running patrol for ~ $500. It has the typical rust/rot problems around the rear lights and vent panels, etc. My primary goal is to turn it into a crawler. I have some experience in building vehicles...my latest project was a frame off restoration of a '72 commando. Is the p'troll a reasonable cadidate for a crawler? To be honest, the rarity of the beast is an attaction, but I'm not particularly interested in a pure restoration, but rather it's suitability as a starting point for a crawler project. Thanks for any input.

Ken

The P engine is awesome. It is carb, not fuel injected, but it is like a tractor engine. 145 HP and 235 lb-ft. If you want to make it a crawler, you will definitely need to change out the running gear. The tranny/t-case is strong, but high gears make it tough. If you can adapt a 5-speed to it (major fab work), or buy a Mark's 4wd 5-speed (Fud is getting orders for them to make another run, probably between $1k-$2k) it would be awesome. I love my patrol in its stock form, and even with high gearing it does very well for my needs.
The only mods I have done is an electronic ignition conversion and better plugs. That's all I really plan to do with the engine, because it's already a beast.

Hell for $500 buy it! Beat it around and you'll be surprised how awesome these Patrols are. I toast built Jeeps and FJs all day long with mine. It is a true legend. Hey then after you have run it a while then just convert all the components to your needs.

I agree with these guys....buy it, get it running and then enjoy it a bit in stock form. After that do what ever you like to the truck.

IMHO you can't go wrong with a Patrol for $500. And once you got the Patrol bug there is no turning back...P-trolls are the only way to go!