subtlez28

I'm imagining that computer tuning held back Hemi swaps in the past, but now Holley has a self learning, stand alone system.

So, wiring aside, are there any major road blocks?

Will it physically fit?

Are there engine mounts and adaptors to keep the manual 5 speed in my 01 XJ?

My google searching nets mostly LS swap stuff. They only Hemi swap parts I found are for JKs.

I completely get why the LS is the more common swap. They are cheaper, smaller and better supported by the aftermarket (I've even done a couple).

However, I just scored a deal on an 06 Hemi, and I think my XJ could use the HP injection!

exjay1027

Ive been dreaming of building an srt xj for a long time.. i wish someone would just pony up and do it

RoyalXJ

Two words, Big Money.

subtlez28

I read what you are typing.

Like I said, I think electronics were not only a hassle, but a $ drain. I think I have a way around that with the Holley stuff.

From what I am reading I should be able to use a NV3550 bellhousing from a 3.9 or 4.7 Dakota to bolt the Hemi to my trans!

I realize the a big part of Cherokees' appeal is there low cost in comparison with say their Wrangler brothers, but I think this could be a budget swap.

XJ-92

To simply put it, your transmission won't hold up to power from a heim for long. Just use the transmission that came out with the motor.

subtlez28

I understand your point. I have and am considering running the NV4500 5-speed that is behind the Hemi.

Two issues though:
1-The NV4500 is a 2wd unit, so I would have to convert to 4x4 tail-housing and likely main shaft.
2-When I was researching an LS swap into a wrangler, I found out the trans tunnel would not clear an NV4500 without a big body lift (and some BFHing). I'm assuming clearance would be similar or less in the XJ (and cannot body lift).

I think the NV3550 would be ok without major abuse. I had one behind a 4.7 V-8 in my Dakota. Novak seems ok with running one behind an LS engine.

People get a little gun shy on trans some times.

subtlez28

My real question here guys is fitment.

Will the pan clear?

Will the exhaust manifolds clear?

Will the shock towers need some love?

exjay1027

http://www.bpeusa.com/G3Electronics.asp

this looks like a fairly cheap way to do the electronics. Buy a harness and have them flash your pcm and that should be all? forgive me if I'm missing something I'm no expert just curious

Metmknice

Sounds like you could sell/trade your hemi for an LSx and come up. Besides, 16 spark plugs? Give me a break.

subtlez28

That could work. The only hang up I see is those kits are for cable throttle bodies. My engine has the drive by wire.

I like the idea of the self learning Holley stuff. I'd even be willing to pay a bit more for it.

Speaking practically, you are 100% correct. I currently own two LS powered vehicles (2012 5.3 Colorado and 6.2 LS3 in a 1,600 pound kit car), and have had several others, including swaps. They are awesome! They are unbeatable power to money.

I just think it would be cool to jump outside of my comfort zone. The engine itself also has some sentimental value. Been in the family since new. The truck kinda failed around it. I would like to give it a new life.

Metmknice

I know there are a handful of people that have done Hemi swaps into 2nd and 3rd gen dakotas. Maybe consider that? OR an old truck, other?
Otherwise, good luck on your venture, document everything.

subtlez28

Yeah, my mind is running wild with other homes for the Hemi. Older truck is high on the list.

I'm just researching at this point. I really like the Cherokee though. More practical than my Wranglers (I have 2 kids), and better value. It is just missing a bit of get up and go. We shall see.

If I take the plunge, I promise there will be a build thread!

andrewmp6

Its cost and lack of swap parts and pennies pre hp a 350 or a ls1 will give the best bang for the buck.And its a lot easier to find a ls in a junkyard then a hemi.The ls came out in 98 and a lot of stuff got it.Dodge rolled the new hemi out in 03 and its been in less cars and trucks then the ls.

subtlez28

All true (except the LS1 was out in 97 in the Vette).

However, that is now over 10 years of Hemis in the junk yards. Plenty of rusty or crashed rams out there. And now there are some viable electronics options for the Hemi.

I'm in no way arguing against an LS. I'm a huge fan.

But something different is good, so long as the hurdles are not too high.

Its sounding like there aren't many because it isn't the easiest or cheapest. Sounds like the fitment itself is not the problem.

exjay1027

i just found a few running rams in the 3-5k range on the local craigslist.. if you scored a wrecked one and bought the wiring and flashed your pcm, and then did all the other things like reinforcing your frame and little doo dads here and there under the hood why couldn't you do this build for 5k? plenty of guys out there who put way more into their rigs that arent nearly as badass as a hemi xj

edit: youd probably realistically be in the 7-10k range but STILL

if i had the dough I'd be all over this. Even if it took me a couple years