Need help, have got the 2.8 blues

[Shoot]

Hello all,
I have a 98 ST 2.8 troll and i think its a great rig but the more i read into the forum the more i think i should be thinking about converting to the 4.2 or Chevy conversion. The troll is setup for weekends only with a roof top tent, Muddies, Bull bar, winch, 2 inch OME lift, other goodies to come and i dont really intend to tow a trailer. Are the 2.8's really that bad, am i driving a timebomb or have i got a vehicle i can rely on.
OH SLEEPLESS NIGHTS.
SHOOT

[Benno7]

Hey mate
Don't worry about your little 2.8 Just keep it cool, service it every 10,000km and don't rev it to hard and it will last you a long time.

[patch697]

Agree with above post give what you've posted as in intended use but 5k servicing is the better way to go.

[Shoot]

Thanks Guys
5000 k services are the go. Going to Bendethra this long weekend, cant wait.

[Benno7]

Oh and don't forget to check the harmonic balancer bolt regularly as they work loose.

[guterra]

Oh and don't forget to check the harmonic balancer bolt regularly as they work loose.

Main problem agreed!

Early 3ltrs are the "more to worry about."

If your that concerned, make sure you have boost and pyros done. Forget about conversions to 4.2 etc (unless u have a big wallet), as the 2.8 gearbox is different along with most of the driveline...

You have nothing to worry about as long as you keep up the general maintenance. Simple really.

[Shoot]

Thanks guys
I am going to stay with the 2.8, had it checked out today and everythings OK, will fit Pyro and EGT gauges ASAP. Its only a weekender so it wont be doing to many K's, I think you have to drive them a little different to the 4.2 Patrol
Cheers

[guterra]

Do some pipe work to her and she will liven up a bit. In my opinion, the 2.8s with a bigger exhaust sound wicked!

Cheers

[Shoot]

Pipe work is on the agenda, just have to slip it past the cook, what about a chip, are they worth the money and do they hurt the engine

[guterra]

Do the chip last.

Get your gauges on first and drive for a little while to familiarise yourself with the readings. Add an exhaust. If its just a weekender, this may be all you want. Don't push your EGTs any higher than 550 degrees and you should be fine. Also, you may want to look into the EGR (exhaust gas recirculation)...... "cough":........ block...... "cough"......... it.