Topic: Increase Power

[TJsTJ]

Want to increase power in '97 Wrangler 4 cyl.  Looking for best, cost effective tips.

[Jeffy]

Regearing makes a big difference but costs a lot.  If you're running larger tires you're already in the red.  Mods help but gearing will get you back.  Electric fan, larger Throttle bodies, Injectors, Hot Ignitions, etc... help but you have to be realistic.  You're not going to get I6 power unless you're going to be tearing into the engine.

Best cost effective option? Sell the Jeep and buy a 4.0L.  Barring that, buy another TJ and swap the engine over.  You can reuse a lot of parts from your 2.5L on a 4.0L.  I've seen TJ's for around $3000 which is double a regear. 

If you can fabricate than a Turbo or Supercahrger might be an option as well.

[dwtaylorpdx]

+1 My 94 YJ 2.5 ,,, its pretty much had a nice warmup, its better than stock, but when your starting at about 120,, its a lot to get anywhere without Pistons/crank/headwork.

There are a couple outfits that sell stroked engines in a crate long-block, but you will pay...

[dwtaylorpdx]

Just a Update,, 505 Performance has stroker 2.5's for 3K get you up to 180HP or better..

[Jeffy]

That 3K could also get you a donor Jeep with a 4.0L and then you sell the left over parts...  Boosted Tech raised their price for their supercharger so it's over $4K now, but that has more potential I think.

[jfrabat]

Regearing makes a big difference but costs a lot. 

I first went to 4.88, but a few years ago, I went to 5.13 and I am happy there.  But as far as I know, there is only one company that makes 5.13 for the d30 and d35.  Some people say they are fragile because there is less contact (including the mechanic that installed mine), but they are still running strong and I have never had issues.