Going to install a V-8 in my stock 2008 Sahara this spring. The thing is so under powered it cannot get out of its own way! I would prefer a GM Gen III engine/auto-transmission but would also consider a Hemi. My desire is to have around 285-325 HP, good gas mileage, the least added weight possible and best over all drivability. Would appreciate insight or advice on engine/transmission choice as well as which conversion kit has proven best. I had a Jeep Wagon way back and put a 327 Chev in it but that was a long time ago before kits were available and computerized control systems were nonexistent. Thanks for any advice you have.

 

Motech will have everything you need. Jeep speed shop may have some of it and rubitrux may have some of it.


I'm in Virginia Beach, if/ when you get this done, I'd like to go for a spin. I'd like to go v8 as well.

 

OP - What karls10jk said. MoTech is the one. I have a MoTech installed L96 (6.0L) with a 6L80E and can't say enough about how pleased I am with it. From what you describe, I'd bet that Robbie (MoTech owner) would recommend a 5.3L engine with the 6L80E transmission. BUT, you really need to speak with him. He will talk with you about what your needs and wants are, how you drive it, and what you expect. Then he will make a recommendation.

karls10jk - (or even OP)... I'm about 4 hours away from you, Fayetteville NC, but do find my way out to OBX or Wilmington every now and then. I'd be happy to let you take mine for a spin and look the install over if you'd like.

 

I'm just over an hour out from obx, give me a shout and I'll make it out

 

Thanks a lot. I am going out to my sons house in Oregon in the spring and do the project at his shop. He just finished installing a Cummins in his H1 Hummer. He spent over two years on the project and it looks like it came from the factory with that engine in it. So putting the V-8 in a Jeep should be a walk in the park compared to his ordeal. Once I get back I will let you know and we can spin the tires in it I'm going to keep the Jeep stock other than that. I have an M416 1/4 ton trailer I pull behind it all over the country so I'm looking forward to being able to keep up with traffic in the mountains when finished. Thanks again.

 

Too easy. Shoot me a PM with your contact info.

 

......done......

 

Another recommendation that you have a talk with Robbie at MoTech , I have a 6.2-6l80E in my JKR and I would do it all over again .

He is not a used car salesman type of guy , really easy going and will listen to you tell him how you intend to use your JK .

But it sounds to me like a 5.3-6L80E is in your future , The LS in a JK is a blast to drive . Once you drive one they sell themselves .

Good Luck With Your Build .

 

Anyone have any experience with rpmextreme? I've talked to them on the phone but that's it.

 

I am going to go against the grain bit. I recently finished up a Hemi swap using a 2010 truck motor along with the JEep Speed Shop kit.Previous to this my experience as a mechanic was a starter change, oil changes and some suspension stuff that did not require welding, no experience to speak of. I did complete this swap with the help of my father in law and a friend with a brand new 2 post lift. Took the body off chassis route, no big deal. After completing this swap I will say there is no way, no way in hell I would pay someone $5k labor to do a swap. A hemi is plug and play no thinking. It looks factory. I considered an LS as well. My wife has a Yukon with the 5.3 and I will say I would not waste my money putting that 5.3 in my jeep. If you do LS do 6.0, 6.2. Maybe call Todd at JeepSpeed Shop, who does both Hemi and LS swaps and hope he answers. After speaking with him it was a no brainier for me. If you are considering a DIY I would be happy to talk to you about my experience with my swap. I also have a detailed spreadsheet so you will see what to expect. I do have some pics but not a ton. In the end I sold my motor and tranny for $1500. Even without the sale of your motor and tranny a Hemi swap can be done for less than $9k.