kcirwilliams

After the new engine is in I'm going to start on steering and suspension updates. I'm going to start with the ZJ tie rod upgade and the replace ball joints. Tires are almost slicks so I want to do the lift before I buy tires. The plan is 3" with 31s and flat flares down the road. It's a daily driver so nothing too extreme. The build will be geared more for reliability and occasional trail use. I've got a 73 c10 project that I've been working on at the same time so it's all moving a little slower than I like.

GreenXJ98

Sounds awesome man.

kcirwilliams

Updated price list again. Looking at what I've spent so far I realize that the crate 4.0 route would've been much easier, faster and pretty much the same price. I don't regret my choice because I wanted to have the pride of knowing that I'm the one that built my engine. It's the first rebuild I've done and it will probably be the last 4.0 that I do. I've got a Chevy 350 that is in need of a rework so I consider this a start and a great learning experience. I will post some pictures of the final product and the swap soon. I'm looking forward to moving on to the suspension and interior.

kcirwilliams

It's coming along

kcirwilliams

Bought a 2 ton engine hoist and leveler today. I'm pulling the engine and trans together this weekend.

kcirwilliams

Looks like new exhaust is going to be needed. I've broken every bolt trying to disconnect it from the manifold/down pipe

Snajo

Engine looks great! Exhaust is pretty cheap compared to everything else you've done... although there's always that pesky matter of when to say enough is enough. Keep posting!

kcirwilliams

Exhaust is cut. All that's left is the shift linkages on the transmission and transfer case and the motor and trans mounts. I should have it all pulled out by the end of the week. Helped a buddy move and doing this by myself so it's taking a little longer than planned.

kcirwilliams

Engine, transmission and transfer case are all out. Hopefully we'll be driving again in the next week or so

2wheeled xj

cant wait too see more!!

kcirwilliams

Waiting for the exhaust adapter plate to show up before I can reassemble. In the meantime I'm tearing the old engine down and cleaning some parts to put on Craigslist and ebay to recoup some of the rebuild expenses

kcirwilliams

It looks like Wednesday is going to be the big day when everything goes back in. Adapter plate came in today and all is put together

zrace

I could look at pictures of a freshly put together engine all day. Looks great. Good luck with it.

zrace

Maybe hit the top of the dip stick with some red paint to go with the theme??

kcirwilliams

A little delay on the install because of the alignment dowels. This will be in my Jeep tomorrow.