AMC 2.5L question

[Lightnin 1]

I have been entertaining the idea of putting a Chevy V8 in my CJ. However, due to financial reasons, I am going to have to wait a while. The 4 cylinder that is in there was rebuilt before I bought it. The #4 cylinder is out of spec by about .012. It burns about a quart of oil every 200 miles or so. I may attempt a rebuild on it, but really would like a little more horsepower. What are some things I can do to keep the motor trustworthy, but boost some hp out of it?

 

[Torxhead]

Looking at what you have posted for your Jeep's specs, I see you have the 3.54 gears. That is a pretty high ratio, especially if you have to drive the hills much. Even worse if you have oversize tires. Burning that much oil though is a bit much though. I would first suggest planning just what you want to do with your rig in the long run before sticking that powerful, parts breaking gas guzzler engine in it. My $.02

 

[Lightnin 1]

It's really a daily driver....... Drive it out on the beach quite a bit. Lacking power in soft sand. Would really like to trail ride in the mountains, not necessarily looking to crawl rocks. Got a Muncie M-465 to go behind a SBC. Was thinking about leaving the differential gear ratios as they are so not tach the V8 so hard & burn extra fuel. Just looking something a little more trustworthy for now until I can build what I want.


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[CJ7nvrstk]

I'm not sure there's a lot of aftermarket performance parts for that motor.

Have you priced out a rebuild on it yet using stock parts? You may find that to be a bit expensive as well.

 

[Posi]

Engine Restorer

 

[Bent]

You can find a good running fuel injected 2.5 out of a Cherokee for around $100. Also check into the flywheel weights for the 2.5 the Cherokee guys are using. But, fuel injecting those motors made a big difference in power/reliability.