Hi everyone, I have been on this forum browsing and not posting for almost 15 years... guess what this is my first post
I have posted and contributed a ton on the 3000GT forums through the years, but enough of those hot rods, lets talk off roading now!
So here is the background story, for our first new family vehicle I purchased a 1999 Mitsubishi Montero brand new off the lot in Dec 1998.
This thing had been a reliable family and dog hauler for many years, we have thoroughly enjoyed it, even as we got older and transitioned to luxury SUVs.
Why am I posting now?
It is time to renovate this classic old girl, honestly we both still love the styling on this SUV more than anything we have owned or seen on the road, its a beauty.
So the plan is to either pull and completely rebuild the engine, or simply drop in a new one... she has 185,000 miles with 2 replace timing belts, due for a 3rd...
In any case, I want to make a nice overlander out of her. I have seen some amazing photos and videos of others doing it. What a great rig for that.
How about some advice on moving forward regarding the engine and drivetrain.
She was never seriously used off road, 4WD was for snow on the roads with only mild off road excursions on fairly good roads.
Knowing what you know about these vehicles, what items would you put high on your list?
I am looking for reputable Mits mechanic to do the work in the puget sound washington area, if you know of some.
She is ready for a good clean up and some love...

 

#1 Question.... new engine vs rebuild? Can I drop in a more modern Mits V6 or would that require too much refitting?

After some more researching... probably just stick with the 6G74 that is in it... so now the question is have a shop pull it and rebuild it or replace it with a reman..?

 

I have an identical 1999 Winter package Montero, same color and tan leather,

but with new 31" tires. What did you do on your engine? Mine has 249,850 original miles and has blown head gaskets after the timing belt broke. Going to pull the engine and fully rebuild it.

 

Im glad I found your thread here about converting your 99 into an excellent "overland/off-road" rig. I own three '94 Monteros and my brother has a '99 identical to yours which he converted to an outstanding overland/camping rig. I will try to post pictures of the amazing work he did.......quality front steel bumper kit with winch, '33 tires with cool rims, solar panels, slid-out frig (like the Aussies did on their show "4 Wheel Drive 24-7"), and many other neat camping features.

You have not posted since 10/31/23, so please post and let us know if you are still hoping to build the off-road rig, and if you want more pictures from us.

Thanks.

 

F15.......Here is my brother's '99 Monty which he "souped-up" into an off-road rig. Gives you an idea of what yours could be turned into: