2008 Sahara Unlimited with 37k miles - stock now. Here in Michigan we have NO emissions or swap rules. I am considering doing a Hemi swap which I would do myself (I am capable, and have done 2 custom CJ engine swaps before).

- Do I NEED one of the kits? $5k seems alot for what looks like a crossmember, radiator, and wire harness. I can fabricate things like crossmembers and brackets unless there is something special about them.

- Do the companies sell harnesses (I assume necessary) separate or only in the "kits"?

- With the kits, is it intended you keep your original T-case (I think so)?

- I run only on street and sand dunes, will the stock axles (and T-case see above) hold up? I do not plan to do any rocks.

- Can I keep my A/C?

- Will traction control and ESP still work after swap (kit wire harness)?

- Am I ok with no lift? I want to keep stock height for my wife - it's her daily driver

 

I just completed a swap myself using the AEV kit. I don't know that I can answer everything, but I can help.

The AEV kit has just about everything you'll need including a new ECU. The computer must be for a Hemi, and it has to match the VIN # for your Jeep (security). The dealer can flash a new ECU, but the one from AEV is all setup with all the JK specific stuff in addition to the Hemi (like the swaybar disc, lockers, etc.). The Procal from AEV lets you set the VIN and configure the computer all at home.

The kit also has motor mounts, A/C lines, P/S lines, a new battry box, and a steering relocation kit, radiator, coolant overflow bottle (and more).

You could do it yourself--none of it is magic, but your success is likely to increase using something turn-key and supported. Also, if time is any factor...

You retain your transfer case. You'll need a transmission tailcone from a RAM pickup. The part # is on the AEV site.

Breaking axles is possible with any setup if you wheel hard, catch air, or like wheelspin. Drive smooth and clean, and you'll probably be ok. Many have gone far on stock hardware with V8s with no problems. Some break everything with 6 bangers. There's no easy answer because it depends on the driver. Stronger is always better, though.

You can retain the A/C--it works just as before assuming you have A/C lines that route properly for the Hemi.

Traction Control and ESP work with the AEV computer...I doubt they would with some other computer, but I'm not entirely sure. AEV works is the bottom line...

You don't need a lift to Hemi your Jeep. I have a long-arm lift and it made the conversion more difficult. The AEV kit is specifically setup for stock.

Good luck with the project!

-Randy

 

It appears the AEV kit is worth it, maybe Quadratec will have a discount code or something like that soon that I can take advantage of.....

I did not see with AEV what engine and Trans I want to choose. I have heard / read Commander, but someone here has to know what the kits are made for (excluding any EPA rules).

Does the 5.7 have enough power to do a burnout without trying too hard (stock gearing and tires)? Trying to get a feel if I want to spring the much extra money for the 6.1 (especially since it uses the 5.7 exhaust).

 

LOL, yes the 5.7 will smoke the tires from a stop with out power braking it.

 

Pnut,

PM'd you my email address. I'll be happy to call/email and give you some ideas. N30EX, DSY and I have all done the AEV kit.

Take care,

Tim

 

Let us know if we can help. We are a AEV dealer and also do Hemi swaps.

Gerry