77 CJ5 Engine Swap...What V8's do you recommend

I have a 77 CJ5 that has an issue with the current 258 engine. I think the cam might be bent or perhaps the bearings are bad. The last time it started it broke the teeth off of the distributor. Anyway thinking of swapping to a 304 or 360. Does anyone have any suggestions? Will it bolt up to the existing transmission? Am aware that engine mounts will have to be moved. Any info would be great. Also I live in cumming, Ga anyone know of any good used motor shops, etc. Thanks, T.

 

Which transmission do you have, the T-150 3-speed? All the AMC I6s and V8s after 1970 have the same pattern, so you could use a 304, 360, or 401. You could also build a stroker mtor from a 4.0L and a 258 crank; esp. easy since you already have the crank. The T-150 is a Ford (design) transmission, so the Ford small blocks will work too if you use a Ford bell.

 

Thanks for the input, I belive it is the T150, I know it is a 3 speed and is the original trans. I would like to go with the 360 but not sure how many mods will be required to make it fit.

 

Well you need the frame mounts for the motor and motor mounts. I am currently swapping in a 360 in a 83 cj7 and this is the only thing we needed to change so far. Fuel line needs to be rerouted, But nothing major.

 

I'm selling a new set of MORE bullet proof motor mounts that will work on a 304-360-401 eng swap. If you are interested let me know.

 

I believe the V8's also used a brace across the frame under the motor mounts. I am not sure if any I6's had this. Ed

 

My 74 came with a 304 but did not come with cross brace on the frame under the motor mounts.

 

My 75/304 does not have a cross brace either. Don't remember seeing that cross brace on any V8.

 

Some late model CJ's had a brace bar that went across the frame between the motor mounts. I don't think it did very much though.

As mentioned above all you need is the passenger side (I think) engine frame mount from a CJ that came with a factory V-8. With the current gas prices I would personally be thinking of somethingother than a V-8. LOL

The stroker swap is a great idea in my book.

 

You will need the right side frame mount, both eng. mounts and the rubbers from a cj that had a v8. Do not use the ones from a wagoneer or pick up. Those mounts are to tall. Did the same swap alittle while ago. Good luck.

 

Thanks guys for all the help! I found a rebuilt 304 on ebay and I am in the process of doing the swap. I let you know how it goes....Just for kicks I picked up a 75 CJ in the middle of restoration, it was basically a complete cj just not put together. I am pulling the engine and axles and will part out the rest if anyone is interested.