Build Thread 1980 CJ-7 engine swap

[csuengr]

Don't know if this is the appropriate section, but here it goes. My dad is doing an engine swap on his 1980 CJ7 . His jeep came stock with a AMC 304 and T-176 . He bought it, rust free, from AZ. He rebuilt the engine because it had a hole in a piston, and some other stuff. He tried to put fuel injection on it, Magasquirt II, but never liked the results, as in 9 mpg. The stock 2bbl carb gave 16mpg. So he decided to swap the engine for one that already had fuel injection, and here is where we are so far.

CJ's make removing the engine sooooo easy.




The replacement engine, a 5.0 Vortec. Yea, I know, but the complete engine, including wiring and computer was $400. The engine is in good condition and makes 230hp and 285lb-ft, all below 5000rpm.



Now, how to make Chevy speak Ford.


Using this.






The adapter is custom made by me. I will not do it again as it was a pain in the ars. I do have detailed drawings if anyone is interested.

Next week we get to stab it back in and make the engine mounts. Then the fun begins. My dad was a EE for almost 40 years, so a few wires don't bother him.

Gratuitous pic.


If any one is interested, the AMC 304 is for sale, including all accessories (less AC compressor, but the bracket is there) and smog, flywheel, clutch, bellhousing, and frame mounts.

 

[csuengr]

Update time. Got the engine put in. Here are the home made engine mounts.


They use factory rubber mounts. These have the same part number, but look different. I like using factory parts when available.


The engine and tranny put in. able to use the stock driveshafts without modifying them, as planned from the start. The 305 fan assembly wouldn't fit, so my dad raided a Taurus for its fans. You will also notice the York compressor for on board air. Made a plate to fit it on.


Here is the plate.


And assembled.


Had to go get an exhaust manifold off a Camaro because the factory truck manifold exited right on top of the frame.


For those of you wondering about running a serp belt on a V-groove pulley, this is how I did it.


Oops. I did it again. (From my 77' Cherk project)

 

[jonathanski]

Kudos on the adapter and engine mounts. I'm an ME and it looks like your dad got a good deal with your machinery !