I know the drill, read the forums. Here's what I have si far.

2.6 wide block on an 88 with the KM145 4x4.

2.6 knocks and blows a "significant" amount of air w oil cap removed.

A good rebuild requires-

Rodding out radiator, maybe cooler tstat, secondary temp gauge, (but nobodies paranoid about overheating.) $250ish

Non-Jet Valve Head, preferably from Clearwater Florida or a minivan (wide block?.)$400ish

New rebuild kit and gaskets, misc parts- $250ish.

Balancing Shaft Elimination, and balance. $150ish

That's done "right" but nothing major. Did I miss anything?

A 'Quest turbo swap involves motor/tranny (4x4 tcase will bolt on?)/wireharness... Again- done right.

And Rodding out radiator and Bal shaft elim?

2.4 swap won't bolt to wide block?

Getting ducks in row, I can buy a running 2.6T out of a Quest or 2.4 for the price of a head from Clearwater.

Concerned about reliability and fuel economy- HP is a perk. Advice please!