Newbie, but have some thoughts about swaps.

Bbsalexaz · 12-05-2009, 12:25 AM

I was thinking, this 2.5L really doesn't have a lot of grunt, well it doesn't have any grunt, it won't really get out of it's own way.

So the thought is, why not swap?
Well I'm big into nissans and since I have no plans on getting rid of the beast(YJ), I figure I should enjoy it.

The motor I want to swap in is a VH45DE, which is a fuel injected, dual overhead cam v8 with around 260whp and 260rwtq. Very nice torque curve too!

The swap would cost me
around $2,000 but if it's more, it's not the first time I've spent wayyyy tooooo muchhhh. Lol.

Just throwing this idea out there. I know it's not a huge motor, or huge power, but I think this thing would be GREAT.

Pillswoj · 12-05-2009, 06:42 AM

Don't know the engine, but when swapping into a Wrangler, total length is the issue. What Transmission and tranfercase are you going to use?

kickingprop · 12-05-2009, 09:02 AM

is the nissan motor a Front Wheel drive motor? If so its probablyh reverse rotation. Something to think about. If its rear wheel drive you should be fine. Adapting a transmission is a whol other beast though. Most guys on here swap SBC and SBF's because there is unlimited aftermarket support and already companies in place that make adapters for these type swaps into jeeps.

SkylinesSuck · 12-05-2009, 10:41 AM

I think he's just pie in the sky talking about the fact that he like Nissan motors, nothing more.

I enjoyed the crap out of my Skyline and have two RB's (the straight 6 engine that comes in them) sitting in storage right now, and I can make an easy 600hp with one, but I'd never even consider putting it in my jeep. To expensive, especially considering there are more powerful, cheaper, and already after market supported swaps out there.

Bbsalexaz · 12-05-2009, 11:13 AM

It's rear wheel drive, there are plenty of transmissions to choose from and they are cheap. I wasn't looking for a big *** power maker, just something That would help with towing and more get up than the 2.5L i4.

If possible, I want to use stock tranny, the motor is inbetween the i4 and i6 as far as length goes. It's not gigantic but it's a V8.

I'd like to try something different, and something I like about the Nissan v8 is that the block/heads are aluminum. It's pretty light, and I was looking for something that wasn't goin to make
her stupid nose heavy. Found it! Lol.

Sorry if I seem anti-easy, or slightly against sbc's and sbf's, I'm looking to try something different.
Thank you everyone! The responses are tactful and are helping put together an image!

**leftlanetruckin** · 12-06-2009, 10:09 AM

Good luck using your stock tranny......an AX5 behind any V8 will be fun to watch. Hell they dont last behind 4 angry squirrels

There are a ton of threads on motor swaps, including the one in my sig. The basics are all the same, regardless of make etc.
Do some reading then post specific questions

Martin

SkylinesSuck · 12-06-2009, 10:31 AM

Yeah, don't even think about trying to use the stock tranny. Even the AX15 behind the I6 would be hard pressed by a mild v8. If you want to be different and do this, I hope you have a LOT more than the $2000 you think this is going to cost.

Bbsalexaz · 12-11-2009, 12:22 AM

That's got me thinking about transmissions now. I have something in mind. I'll try not to sound too nubbish thru m build thread down the road. Thanks guys.

RogueSpear2023 · 12-11-2009, 01:18 AM

I think an AX15 would work he's only talking 260hp and 260tq. that's about the same as stroker. But as far as finding adapters that could be a real pain.

**Wheelin98TJ** · 12-11-2009, 08:36 AM

I too think that $2,000 is a conservative estimate.

You'll spend at least $500 on shop supplies and tools before you're done.

Shoot, even oil and coolant is expensive these days.

I recently finished a 4.7 V8 swap from a WJ in to my TJ and it cost a lot more than I expected.

Bbsalexaz · 12-11-2009, 08:54 AM

I do all my own work and I have a buddy who is a certified welder. Thank god, cause I am not even going to try to make engine mounts lol. I'll leave that to him.

The engine with all the accesories=$250 total.
Wiring harness & computer= $500. Adapter plate for tranny, $800-$1000.
All the **** I want will make it over 2k, proably closer to $4500(headers and a better intake mani) but it can be done for around 2k.
As long as you scavenge parts well.

Hell I could use a Nissan tranny that is already set up for 4 wheel drive vehicles.

**leftlanetruckin** · 12-11-2009, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bbsalexaz

I do all my own work and I have a buddy who is a certified welder. Thank god, cause I am not even going to try to make engine mounts lol. I'll leave that to him.

The engine with all the accesories=$250 total.
Wiring harness & computer= $500. Adapter plate for tranny, $800-$1000.
All the **** I want will make it over 2k, proably closer to $4500(headers and a better intake mani) but it can be done for around 2k.
As long as you scavenge parts well.

Hell I could use a Nissan tranny that is already set up for 4 wheel drive vehicles.

Or save the adapter and use the Nissan transfer case too.
When I do any swap, I use the complete drivetrain, motor/tranny/t.case. And yes, Chevy do make drivers side drop t/cases before anyone thinks differently...

I have yet to use an adapter for a swap. Do it right and there will be no need.
Martin