Is the 258 engine better for a Jeep CJ?

Is the 258 engine better for a Jeep CJ?

Weight balance. With the 258 engine, the Jeep is very nose heavy, not a great balance. Because the V8 is a shorter engine, the weight sits farther back into the engine compartment, balancing the weight better. This also gives you the advantage of more clearance to the radiator, depending on your accessory setup.

What kind of transmission did CJs have in 1980?

Transmissions for the 1980 and later CJs were all new, comprising: The Borg Warner SR4 Transmission was the base four-speed available with both the 151 and 258 engines through 1981. This light-duty transmission was short lived, in durability and production.

What kind of engine does a Jeep CJ have?

Advanced Adapters makes their own Chevy 350 shorty headers, Part AA-717011. They also make a pair that work outside the frame rail, Part AA-717038. Those almost give your Jeep the 1960’s “Gasser” style dragstrip look. Chevy engines are known to put out some heat.

What do I need for a Jeep CJ engine swap?

The following is a list of other components you’ll need before you begin the Jeep CJ engine swap. If you want to keep your factory transmission, you need a bell housing to adapt from the 350 to the transmission. One example would be Advance Adapters Chevy V8 to Jeep AX5 Bellhousing Adapter Kit (Part AA-712565V).

What to do with an old CJ5 engine?

Installing different engine mounts and bolting up the motor is only the first step in the engine swap process . After that starts a multiple series of “mini projects”, including hooking up the transmission, cooling and exhaust systems, and wiring it all up. At this point, you may consider upgrading the brakes and suspension.

What kind of engine does a jeep CJ5 have?

Introduced in 1985, this motor is basically a small-block Chevy V8 with the back two cylinders cut off, so parts availabilty is no problem. It’s compact size fits well in vintage Jeeps. A popular engine/transmission combo is a Chevy 4.3 with a GM TH350 automatic.

Weight balance. With the 258 engine, the Jeep is very nose heavy, not a great balance. Because the V8 is a shorter engine, the weight sits farther back into the engine compartment, balancing the weight better. This also gives you the advantage of more clearance to the radiator, depending on your accessory setup.

Transmissions for the 1980 and later CJs were all new, comprising: The Borg Warner SR4 Transmission was the base four-speed available with both the 151 and 258 engines through 1981. This light-duty transmission was short lived, in durability and production.