2.8L v6 opinions

We're looking for a "beater" for my wife and saw an '86 Comanche pick up on the way home yesterday. It's 4x4 with 150,000 miles on a v6. I understand the inline 6's are perferred but what are the problems with the v6? Asking price is $800 and the body is straight and fairly rust-free so how wronge can we go? Starts fine but we haven't driven it yet, plan on going back for a second look. thanks in advance.

 

Lets see if I remember right. They have a tendency to eat Camshafts if the oil is not changed often enough, along with a few other problems. Personally I think the problems are blown out of proportion and are caused by neglectful owners.

 

I searched NAXJA and quickly came up with this thread
http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=12951&highlight=2.8l

Apparently the crank lubrication is inadequate on the early 2.8L. Don't know if this applies to the '86.

NAXJA is probably your best source for all questions XJ.

hth!

 

One of the biggest problems I've run into with the 2.8 in both Jeeps and GM vehicles, Other than being under powered and overworked in the application used, is the intake manifold bolts have a tendency to work loose and allow coolant to leak into the crank case and wipe out the main and rod bearings. Seen it happen pretty often. If you get it, make sure you periodically re-torque, and I mean with a torque wrench, the intake bolts and change the oil at a regular interval. Keep a close eye on the oil as well for signs of contamination. Nickmil.

 

yup, i had an 86 with the v6 in it... it was a little underpowered and took a wile to get up to speed on hills. it wasn't an interstate car either with 4.11 gears, the little stock tires, and an engine i was afraid to work too hard.

but it did everything i asked of it on the trails.

 

I just sold a 86 cherokee with the 2.8. I will not buy another jeep with one in it. Underpowered. leaked oil and needed a major over haul when I sold it.It had a great body, But the next one I get will have a 4.0 in it. when I was selling it no one else wanted the 2.8 either. i wound up getting $700 for it. Just my opion.

 

I had a Chevy S-10 with the 2.8. As some one said, the intake manifold works loose then oil starts leaking down the back of the engine making one hell of a mess. It was kinda gutless too and the only thing that made it tolerable was the fact that it had a 5 speed tranny.

 

We drove it last night, what a POS. No power. Slower acceleration than my '86 diesel Suburban, i didn't think that was possible. Price wasn't negotiable and we didn't really want it after driving it. Now we know. thanks for everyones input.