wrangler l6 into an 86 cj7

[jonny500]

I have a 86 CJ7 that came with the l4 engine.I am in the process of installing a newer wrangler l6 motor.the problem i am coming on now ,is that my engine now sticks out about 3inches further.about where the radiator needs to be.anybody ever done this swap before?or have any ideas on how put the hood/fenders back on to look stock.

 

[SteelHeadz]

Have you considered moving the Powertrain and drive train back to get the correct clearance on the front?.There should be enough space between the firewall and the cylinder head to do this. You will more likely have to find a shorter rear driveline and a longer front driveline.

 

[jonny500]

wish i had .however i already have the motor mounted ,and almost to start .I am leaning more toward a hard mounting of the radiator.and either modding my grill or moving the hood and fenders foward.i am also tossing around the idea of a one piece front end.

 

[SteelHeadz]

Is it the crankshaft pulley that's too far forward ?

 

[jonny500]

yes ,plus the fan.I am also taking into account at least 3 in to accomodate for flex

 

[volaredon]

wrangler I6 as in a 258 or a 4.0? I know the frame part of the motor mounts is different between a 4 and a 6 on a TJ (just went thru this as I had to replace the frame on my 97 due to RUST). from what i understand they are the same only welded in at a different spot between the 2 engines. (understandable given the difference in length between a 4 and a 6) The trans and T case mount in the same location for either engine though.

 

[SteelHeadz]

yes ,plus the fan.I am also taking into account at least 3 in to accomodate for flex

You could cut into the backside of the grill and modify a new mount for the radiator to recess the whole radiator. Switch to an electric fan as well.

 

[jonny500]

thanks . I cut a bit of the grill,removed the fan.Now i have plenty of room plus room in front of the radiator for an electric pusher fan.