Topic: 4.0 swap-how bad is it

[stan98tj]

What's it take to swap in a 4.0?
I had decided to upgrade to an LJ. But I don't want to throw $11-14k down right now.
Could I keep my 3spd auto? Or will I need a new trany as well? A new pcm? How bad of a swap is this? Does anyone sell an easier "conversion" package?

[Jeffy]

http://4bangerjp.com/forums/index.php/topic,11242.0.html

I forgot to mention:

1: No
2: Yes
3: Yes
4: Not too bad but not simple either.
6:Yes and no.  The easiest way to do this is to buy a 4.0L TJ with rear end damage.  Otherwise buy a high mileage TJ and a rebuilt core.  Then start swapping parts.  You could just buy an engine but you need to make sure you get all the parts necessary.  There are companies that sell transmission kits that are bolt-in.  If you buy a rebuilt 4.0L you'll still need the harness, PCM, intake, exhaust and some other bits and pieces.  You would reuse your front accessories if it's of a similar year.  Ie., not a Multi-Pak ignition vs distributor.  I think that's when they moved around all of the accessories.

[stan98tj]

http://4bangerjp.com/forums/index.php/topic,11242.0.html

I forgot to mention:

1: No
2: Yes
3: Yes
4: Not too bad but not simple either.
6:Yes and no.  The easiest way to do this is to buy a 4.0L TJ with rear end damage.  Otherwise buy a high mileage TJ and a rebuilt core.  Then start swapping parts.  You could just buy an engine but you need to make sure you get all the parts necessary.  There are companies that sell transmission kits that are bolt-in.  If you buy a rebuilt 4.0L you'll still need the harness, PCM, intake, exhaust and some other bits and pieces.  You would reuse your front accessories if it's of a similar year.  Ie., not a Multi-Pak ignition vs distributor.  I think that's when they moved around all of the accessories.

I've also heard of swapping in chevy small blocks. Are those any simpler?

[Jeffy]

I've also heard of swapping in chevy small blocks. Are those any simpler?

Depends.  Keep in mind you're either buying conversion brackets or fabricating stuff.  At minimum, you're usually looking at a conversion adapter for a T-case and that's if you keep the stock transmission.  Otherwise, you're usually looking at a conversion adapter for that end as well.  You're also not going to get any plug&play as everything will have to be changed out.  Exhaust is going to be all custom as well.  If you have emissions or just want to stay legal, you'll need to run all the cats required.  On a LS motor that's 2 cats.  So really, no it's more simpler.

Oh and if you're thinking about going carb then things get a little easier for the most part so you can skimp on parts and the legal mumbo jumbo.  Although if they do emissions or even random inspections, it can be expensive.

[stan98tj]

A buddy of mine just texted me. His friend is selling his 4.0 (currently out of jeep with 5spd and tcase attached) for $150.00
He'll throw in the harness and prob ECu (fairly sure they won't work since I want an auto).
Motor has 154k and clean no leaks.
I feel like Id be foolish to pass this up...

[stan98tj]

Snow kept me from driving down to Staten Island to pick up the motor. 2wd 4cyl ranger= worthless in snow.
But that made me think, the 4cyl in my ranger is more powerful and more efficient than the 2.5 in the Tj...what if I just swap the 4.0 in the ranger...and swap the ranger's 4banger into the TJ?
Hahahaha

[Jeffy]

Snow kept me from driving down to Staten Island to pick up the motor. 2wd 4cyl ranger= worthless in snow.
But that made me think, the 4cyl in my ranger is more powerful and more efficient than the 2.5 in the Tj...what if I just swap the 4.0 in the ranger...and swap the ranger's 4banger into the TJ?
Hahahaha

You must be smoking something good!   The only reason it feels more powerful and more efficient is because it's not carrying several hundred lbs of extra weight and isn't shaped like a brick.  The 1997-2012 Ranger made about 117 hp and 149 lb·ft.  And depending on the year and config. it could weigh as little as 2820-2970 lbs.

[Bounty Hunter]

Pointless to swap the 4.0L into a 2.5L Wrangler.  You'll need to fabricate new motor mount perches to weld to your frame, and the end result will be just another run-of-the-mill 4.0L Jeep with a hacked up install.

If you're going through the trouble, put in a more worthwhile engine, something a little more unique with more mod capability.  Use the entire donor drivetrain to save big bucks on adapters.

I'm in the middle of swapping a 4.3L 4L60e 231c/j into my 2.5L Comanche, oh what fun.

[Jeffy]

I wouldn't say it's pointless.  Some people don't want to have to open a huge can of worms.  Although, it would be easier to just jack up the body and roll the whole frame under your old body.  Then swap axles, suspension, etc... over.  No welding and cutting required that way.  Seeing as how cheap TJ's are these days, it's a viable option.  Then you could sell what's left and recoupe some money.

[stan98tj]

Pointless to swap the 4.0L into a 2.5L Wrangler.  You'll need to fabricate new motor mount perches to weld to your frame, and the end result will be just another run-of-the-mill 4.0L Jeep with a hacked up install.

If you're going through the trouble, put in a more worthwhile engine, something a little more unique with more mod capability.  Use the entire donor drivetrain to save big bucks on adapters.

I'm in the middle of swapping a 4.3L 4L60e 231c/j into my 2.5L Comanche, oh what fun.

I got the motor for $150, have very competent buddies who will turn wrench with me for beer. I just feel i couldnt pass the deal up. Also, seeing how my 4.0 friends are able to power up hills and get the wheel speed they need, where i am left bogged down and cursing makes me feel the 4.0 will have plenty of the power im looking for.
The frame mounts seem to be the hardest thing, but i figure it shouldnt be bad as long as you have a good welder and the correct measurements

[Jeffy]

I wouldn't get too bent out of shape over it.  Jeeps are a monetary loser especially older Jeeps that aren't classics.

[stan98tj]

I wouldn't get too bent out of shape over it.  Jeeps are a monetary loser especially older Jeeps that aren't classics.

Nothing to get bent out of shape over. Currently have no power, soon I'll have enough power :)
Seems simple enough.