Yeah the 4WD system is a little sketchy on those old wagons. I’m sure he could’ve done something about it, but I’m also sure he has his reasons for staying FWD. I don’t think a 3.5" exhaust would’ve fit with the drivetrain all in place, and it probably saves a lot of weight.
i still love my sohc even if it doesnt have the out of the box power i like being different and if done correctly they are more reliable and cheaper to rebuild at higher power. i am just happy some people are still rockin’ the sohc dispite the 6 and the k being the big thing now.