This is a common
conversion one we have done several times. It is
tough to put an exact price on, or what all you
need. Here�s a list of essential items you will
need, not to mention also needing the proper tools. Also keep in mind
that we are not claiming to be experts on this so don't consider
our
opinions as rules only a guide. Do plenty of research and use as
many resources as possible to form your own views.
Your swap has to be what is right for your
application.
Gotchas
- Engine- Try to
get a complete engine for all of the accessories
especially brackets. An engine can run from $50
to however much you want to spend. A complete
new performance motor will run $2000+. Sometimes
a new engine can be cheaper than a rebuild plus
you get a warranty. Swapping in an
odd-ball V8 just because it's laying around is
often a bad and costly idea.
- Transmission-
Depending on the HP and how heavy your foot is
your stock Jeep trans may not handle the engine.
Some earlier stock transmissions like the T18,
T150, T176, and the automatics are pretty good
choices. Most others aren�t considered strong
enough but can be used if not abused. Non-Stock
transmissions like a NV4500 are a good choice
but can cause clearance problems, require
expensive adapters, and usually require
driveshaft lengthening/shortening.
- Adapters-
(Novak GM Adapter shown) Depending on
what you have and what you are
putting in will decide this. For instance if
your Jeep has an AMC inline 6cyl an AMC V8 will
bolt right up to the trans and all you need is
some factory motor mounts. Same Jeep getting a
Chevy V8 is a different story. You will need
transmission and motor mount adapters. Adapters
can run from $150 to $1000.
- Radiators- Most
V8 swaps will require a new heavier radiator to
handle the V8, fortunately there are several
companies which make conversion radiators that
fit right into the stock Jeep grille. $200-500.
- Exhaust Systems-
These can be easy or frustrating. The easy way
is getting a set of fender well headers and
slapping mufflers out the side with some
turn-outs $150-$250. Harder way is duals out the
back with headers or manifolds, this usually
needs to be done by a muffler shop and some
won�t do it for emissions reasons. Check around.
- Annoying
Problems- All kinds of problems can arise doing
a swap. Try to go to your local parts store and
get a radiator hose for a Chevy 350 in a Jeep
CJ, most times the say "That�s not in my book
here". Most problems involve getting and fitting
parts into the engine compartment. You have to
keep in mind the steering rod, hood clearance,
the front drive shaft, the radiator, the cowl,
the brake master cylinder, fenders, wiring, etc�
Engine Types - popular
to not-so
information provided by
Novak Conversions
Chevrolet V8's
The 1958-2001 Chevy Small Block V8's are very
popular for Jeep swaps. Stock Small Block series
engines consist of the following displacements:
265, 283, 305, 307, 327, 350, 400. Some of the
reasons for the popularity of these engines are:
availability, outstanding parts
interchangeability, compactness and light
weight, plus the fact that these engines fit
nicely in most Jeeps. These engines have been
popular choices since the mid-sixties, and
because they are so familiar, the information
and parts required to swap them are more widely
available. Big Block V8 engines are exciting,
but usually do not make for a smart swap into
most Jeeps.
Ford V8's
The Small Block Ford V8 can be installed in most
Jeeps although generally not as simply or
economically as the Chevy V8. The Ford small
block series are the 260, 289, 302 and 351W. The
biggest problem with the Ford V8 is that the
engine is longer than the Chevy V8 which is a
problem on CJ's up through 1971. Another problem
with the Ford engine is the front sump oil pan
found on all engines except those used in some
4x4s. Oil pan modification or the use of a 4x4
pan is required on most Jeep installations.
Exhaust manifold changes add to the cost of the
swap. Parts interchangeability is not nearly as
good as on Chevy V8. However, Ford enthusiasts
who know these motors and their parts
interchange information well, swear by them and
install them with good success. Ford Big Blocks
are discouraged, as well as the Cleveland and
Modified series.
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Engine Types (cont.)
Mopar V8's
The Dodge Small Block 318 and 360 V8's are the
best Mopar swaps into Jeeps. These engines are
strong, reliable and affordably maintained. They
are roughly the size of the Chevrolet Small
Block. As Jeep has come under the wing of
Chrysler, some are interested in installing
these engines in their Jeeps. Our curiosity in
the installation of these engines into Jeeps is
piqued. Get in touch with us for details. Dodge
big blocks, however, are likely to be fairly
poor choices for most Jeep conversions, due to
weight, size and excessive power.
AMC V8
These are far less intuitive swaps than most
individuals assume when planning a swap, and the
surprises often weigh down the project
discouragingly. AMC V8's have always made good
power and have some good design built into them,
but the increasing obsolescence in their parts
drive the costs of maintenance up. It often
turns out, ironically, that the hardest parts to
swap into Jeeps are Jeep parts. It should be
noted here that the AMC engines are in no way
related to the Mopar V8's, even if the c.i.d.
designation may be the same.
Chevy 350 in
Mike's 70 CJ-5 |
Remember
A V8 conversion is not
an easy task and this list is by no means complete,
it takes skill and handiness to make this work. We
always say that this job should be done right
because it is harder to do over and when you are out
on the trail it can leave you stranded. Also make
sure it�s legal where you live to do this because if
you have vehicle inspection in your area you may
have done all the work for nothing if it won�t pass
inspection.
Related Articles
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from Novak conversions on cooling problems
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Jeep Tech - Engine Swaps
Information on all kinds of engine swaps.
Jeep Tech - Engines
Comprehensive guide to Jeep engines.
Engine Swap Resources
Novak Conversions
Probably the oldest and best in swaps and
adapters
Advance
Adapters
Almost any kind of adapter you could need for a swap. |