Install a V6 into a 79 CJ5?

My son was interested in a V8 in his 79/5 with dual exhaust, but I gave him two other choices: 1) He can buy a used 258 I6 and install a custom dual exhaust or I have a V6 :v6: that I can give him and he will have to purchase parts he needs for the install.

I know we can find a 258 cheap and the exhaust should be around two bills. The V6 he would need a bell housing, motor mounts adaptor?

He likes the sound and he is leaning towards the V6, but the 258 may be more practical, it doesn't matter to me just as long as it's not a V8.

Which engine would you choose for his 79 and why? If he goes with the V6 is their anything else beside what was mentioned above that he will need for the install?

Not to say it’s never been done, but is there a reason why I have never heard of a V6 :v6: that has been swapped into a late 70s Jeep……..maybe I just don’t get out much.

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

258 because it would be cheaper and easier to do.

 

There's a member on this board with a 225 in a 74 CJ IIRC.

 

Well, I'm trying to think of a reasons in favor of the V6. All I can come up with is you have the V6, your son prefers the exhaust note of the V6, and the V6 will live longer above 6000 rpm. Probably if you can build an engien that will run above 6000 rpm, the V6 will have more power since power goes like torque times rpm. There was a 199 cid AMC I6 indy engine that made 600 hp, but you won't get near that with the long 258 stroke. I can think of plenty of reasons against. The V6 will require an adapter, since you're using a Ford transmission (T-150 or?). The V6 will be about a foot away from the radiator, and at best will look really goofy in that engine compartment. The 258 has 28 more cubic inches. The 258 is more widely available, and cheaper to fix and repair. I would expect the 258 to have a more favorable torque curve, due to the longer stroke.

If he wants something a little different, how about a 4.0L HO from an XJ? It seems like there are a lot of them around for short money - they're stacked 3 high at the yards. It has a lot more performance than a carbureted 258, especially on the street, and is a better looking engine than the 258. A little more complicated with MPI, but worth it in driveability and economy.

 

I am leaning in the direction of a gm 4.3l V6 myself. My plan is to buy a wrecked s-10 or an older 80's s-10. I see lots for $1000 or so as running DD, but I want a max of $500 so rusted or wrecked is better.

I just need to find one. btw I am looking for a 2wheel drive automatic s-10 that runs well if anybody has one cheap. (I am going postal thus automatic 2 wheel drive ...details..details....)Just thought i'd ask...

Anyway My reasons are: its a chevy parts are cheap. The chevy v6 is good on gas and the TBI is very reliable. Never had a problem (other than silly emmisions controls) with my suburban's 350. The V6 is very light weight, can produce really decent power and torque. It also shares the same basic parts as the small blocks like the 350 including the belhousing.

If you find a good donor s-10 you get a bigger radiator to keep the v6 cool, if you want the trans as well it makes for a very easy swap. With a little modification you also get the power steering. I think the tires and rims will also fit, but not so sure there. There has to be other parts you can take and modify for use in a jeep as well.

There were a few posts here about how to do the v6 swap as well.

 

oh if you or anyone else wants a straight 6 232 cu from a dj it will be free for pickup in NJ in a few days. PO said it ran well but had trans problems. Trans was out so i never tried the motor looks clean thats about all i know. I'll post pictures and details in the sell page once its out.

 

Yes, I have a 87 Ford T-18 and a 77 J-10 T18 as of today, but things may change on which tranny he will use. I would need to reread one of my old post to get both of those trannys working as one. I believe I need to change the main shaft. But that a question for another post.

Everyone has some great ideas food for thought.