Is there anything you can do to update a drivetrain in a 79ish (guessing cause I don't know if I want to pursue) wagon? Was the 4WD in these pretty decent?

 

I've found what appears to be an abandoned one, and don't know if I should bother the folks if it's a huge headache or dog...

 

please advise.

 

Thanks,

Easiest swap I've heard of is a carbed EA81 or EA82 and a 4 or 5 sp dual range trans. I am pretty sure it's been discused plenty in the past in this forum. Try browsing for a couple of hours

EA82 won't be a direct fit. Frame rails have to be modified for clearance of the valvecovers. an EA81 will fit though BUT the stock engine in the car (EA71) and the EA81 bellhousings are different. You will need to swap to an EA81 4wd transmission for it to work. Yes, the 4wd in these is awesome. Great for the snow and mild offroading since the stock tranny is only a single range 4wd.