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304 V8

Discussion in 'Jeepster Commando and Commando Tech' started by johnD, Apr 9, 2019.

  1. Apr 9, 2019
    johnD

    johnD FUBAR

    Morgantown, PA
    Joined:
    Mar 3, 2018
    Messages:
    116
    Is there a different in the years of the 304 V8 1971 to the 1972? Also has a automatic trans.
    I'm getting a commando with a cj front but has the commando frond end and hood. Also is parts easy to find! I'm in PA
    upload_2019-4-9_19-15-29.jpeg
     
  2. Apr 10, 2019
    jpflat2a

    jpflat2a what's that noise?

    Hermosa, SD
    Joined:
    Jul 30, 2003
    Messages:
    8,513
    Seem to recall some differences in valve train, cylinder heads, rockers arms/studs etc.
     
  3. Apr 11, 2019
    timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Medford Mass USA
    Joined:
    Aug 10, 2003
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    23,596
    Careful - the '70-71 engines had a flat crank flange, different from the later engines. Not sure how much that affects, but I believe they are not bolt-in compatible. Search the Wagoneer forums if it's an issue. Specific questions about the transmission? It's a nailhead TH400, and the '70-71 flexplate and convertor are likely different. Look at the '65-73 J-series parts book on the Tom Collins site for changes in these parts. The J-series will be the same in this respect.

    Anything but routine service parts for a Commando can be difficult to impossible to find.
     
  4. Apr 12, 2019
    johnD

    johnD FUBAR

    Morgantown, PA
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    Mar 3, 2018
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    Thanks
     
  5. May 1, 2019
    Chilly

    Chilly Active Member

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    Mar 12, 2007
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    1,486
    304 parts arent difficult to find if you can wait a day or three. Over the counter availability can be hit and miss though. NAPA alway able to help me, though almost always need to come back when stuff arrives.

    I think your rockers will be the same. Switch to inferior bridge rockers happened early 73, IIRC. For sure my June 73 had bridges.

    I just took down two 304 (73 and 77). I'm rebuilding the 73 and will have one left over crank. Both mic in spec and dont need a grind. If you want a crank I have one. Fresh out of engines, not half rusted door stops.
     
  6. May 7, 2019
    johnD

    johnD FUBAR

    Morgantown, PA
    Joined:
    Mar 3, 2018
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    116
    I found out that I have a 360 not a 304 The PO must have swapped the engines. Thank you! I need to find body panels for the commando any good resources.
     
  7. May 8, 2019
    jackdog

    jackdog Member

    Finger Lakes NY
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    Jul 16, 2013
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    526
  8. May 10, 2019
    johnD

    johnD FUBAR

    Morgantown, PA
    Joined:
    Mar 3, 2018
    Messages:
    116
    Thank you
     
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