Hello, I just bought my first jeep a few days ago and it has the GM 2.8 V6 and the 3Spd auto (TF904 correct?) , i'm moderately mechanically inclined and i'd like to swap in something to get more power and reliability. I have a few major questions i'd like answered please. Also, i'm a machinist for a living (apprentice technically) so I could do some basic fab work if I need it, my roommate has a 500+ HP supra that he's built from the ground up so I have some help there with engine department if I need it and his dad owns a body shop so I have access to a vehicle lift and basic tools.

Whatever I swap in i'd like to have easily accessible parts as well as good aftermarket support.

1) What engine options should I consider if I want to keep the stock transmission, TCase and driveline?

2) If I were to swap a different transmission in with a different engine (would prefer a 4 or 5 speed manual) what are some good engine, transmission and TCase options I could consider?

Any and all input is appreciated!

 

I just read a little on the wikapedia site about the 60 degree GM motors. Looks like you will want to stay with generation 1 blocks. I there is a 3.4L that was used in firebirds that was rated a 200 hp. You have to look for a rear wheel drive application otherwise the bell housing will be different.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genera...2%B0_V6_engine

 

Start here. Small block Chevy with automatic.

http://www.novak-adapt.com/knowledge...ick-gm/xj-swap

 

It's ancient, but you can put a small block in it. Just like I did when I got the Jeep with a broken engine.

 

I was also considering something like this, mainly because the 7mgte is what my roommate has in his supra, he knows them inside and out. And it's a decent price too.

eugene.craigslist.org/pts/5246095859.html

Might annoy the crap outta some people a little, but it'd sure be unique! Haha

 

2.8 to 3.4 swaps are the most common and probably the easiest.

My personal dream (and my answer to your 2nd question) is to put a Buick 3800 into a 84-86 XJ. It is a superbly well-designed motor (it makes my list of best engines ever personally) that is super reliable, easy to work on, has great support, gets great power, and maintains great gas mileage. While it is a 90 deg V6, it has the same bolt pattern as the 60 deg motors. Most in the US were FWD format, but you can get RWD 3800's out of 98+ Camaros/Firebirds if you don't want to be forced to get all kinds of fab-crafty making a FWD 3800 fit and work for you.

 

I loved the 3.8 on my Oldsmobile royale. And as I recall, some of them were supercharged from the factory too.