I'm probably going to come into possession of my mom's 95 Sidekick which apparently needs a new engine. The 4-door, bone-stock automatic is otherwise in great shape and I'm thinking it will be the basis for a nice off-road rig.

A few questions as I ponder its fate:

To rebuild the engine, I see kits for $350 or so. It's been a while, but I have rebuilt a few engines. Is there anything special or unique to watch out for with this engine?

I've seen VW-diesel conversion kits that can mate to the t-case and transmission. What else would be involved in this swap?

Keep it stock, and put the effort into my 02 4door Vitara which is already quite trail-ready? (4-inch or so suspension/body lift, rear locker, rock rails).

Other ideas?

Thanks,

Jeff

Just really be careful to put the head gasket
on the right way, watch for the oil hole that
feeds the head

Get the head done at the same time, the rest is
pretty straight forward, like any other rebuild