I have the EA82 in the wagon, and the EA81 in the Brat. I am going to at least replace the gaskets in the wagon's engine this year. I am thinking of going to an EA81 in it. I like an engine with no timing belts. I have only had one problem with the wagon but, once on the side of the road is enough. Will the EA81 bolt up to the 5 Sp d/r tranny? That is the only thing that might stop me from doing this. I really like the EA81, easier to work on, simpler engine, no timing belts. I looked on Rockauto for prices, and the EA81 is cheaper there too. I know that I am going back in time mechanically but, I like easy. Any info needed, this is just an idea right now.

Its an interesting Idea for sure and if the wagon has SPFI you dont have to do as much hard work to get an SPFI EA81. The only problem is that you will be taking a good size step down in power and the EA82 styled wagon is heavier than anything that the EA81 was put in so you will have one slow wagon...albeit reliable but slow. If you do decide to go through with this make sure u get a hydro EA81. You dont have to adjust lifters every 15-20k miles. Just food for thought.