Hi All, I am looking for some opinions on the jeep I own. Currently I have a 2007 JKU Sahara with some minor work to it. Yesterday while driving my transmission went and was told today that both the transmission and engine are shot.
The question is do I trade in the jeep and look for another one or do I go for a Hemi conversion?

Here's a pic of the rig.

 

I would start with a second opinion.

If you add the Hemi, would you keep the Jeep pretty much like it is or are you planning to expand on your mods?

If you did trade it in,what would you get? And would you mod it different, and how so?

 

I would eventually like to replace the diffs to d44s and re-gearing but besides that keep mostly how it is.

I have to call back tomorrow to find how much trade in would be.

Going the Hemi route (extra 5+ grand) I think is the best option since they want $11,000 for new engine and trans.

 

In that case I vote Hemi!

 

i second the hemi, like you just said you would be leaving the jeep pretty much how it is, meaning you have already got it to the point that your happy with it. why start over now?

 

What are you thinking the Hemi is going to cost you??

 

I'm looking to keep it under $15,000. Going to be tight but think I will be able to get it done with some good research.

 

You can replace the 3.8 and trans for about $2k max. You didn't need a hemi before, why now?

From a total cost of ownership, going new is a better investment. However, if you go that route, you're better to replace the engine and trans first in your current jeep.

You can't just toss a hemi in. You need a drivetrain to back it up. You need suspension to compensate for the weight and additional forces. Brakes to handle the same. And what about insurance? If you total the Jeep, do you think you'll get an extra $15k because it has a hemi? Nope. You'll be screwed.

 

Where can you find a 3.8 and trans for 2k max I'm quoted at $11,000. The jeep is fully paid off, a trade in will be barely anything since it does not have a working engine or trans.
I have the big brake kit on the front. The D44 in the rear will be fine, the front 35 would be the only problem in the future and new drive shafts would be needed.
I agree with the insurance part but I would rather have a nice hemi in there over the shitty 3.8 that will just crumble again.

 

Id bet money you dont have a d35 front