Who said anything about speeding? I think there is room to recognize the different driving conditions that exist in different parts of the world, and some of the California freeways or even mountain highways at altitude can become hazardous if you aren’t able to keep up with traffic in a reasonable manner, especially on ramps and in merge situations. I too see JKs zip by mine on the freeway all the time. They clearly have different expectations for operation than I do, it doesn’t mean that anyone’s particular vehicle isn’t underpowered for their level of expectation. And to your point, a more appropriately paired engine and transmission with better low-end torque might not “see the gas gauge move” as badly, neglecting the whole counter-argument of fuel makes power and the same amount of fuel is needed whether at low rpm or high... sometimes true but not always.
Jku Engine Swap options
- Thread starter Stroked 550
- Start date
We have a 14 with 4.10 gearing and an auto with 35'sand a lot of armor. I have no issue with the power of the jeep. Afterall, I knew I was not buying a race car. You may be surprised at what correct gearing will do.
Stroked 550
Adventurer
Its not about having a race car its about having a vehicle that can maintain the posted highway speed with ease
I've driven other jeeps with stock tires and they are sluggish too thats how they are but it looks like jeep is wising up because of the Bronco and the engine options they have
I've driven other jeeps with stock tires and they are sluggish too thats how they are but it looks like jeep is wising up because of the Bronco and the engine options they have
Recommended books for Overlanding
Jnich77
Director of Adventure Management Operations
You'll get run off the road here in Central Fl if you can't merge or maintain your speed....lol.
wADVr
Adventurer
A quick Google search turned up some concerning reports of dealing with this company. I like the idea of a stroker motor as apposed to swapping in an LS or Hemi to get the power up to an acceptable level BUT I also prefer stock components when possible, even if they are other vehicles stock components to make up my vehicle. From my XJ days and people stroking the 4.0 inline6 to 4.5/6/7/8 and seeing the tuning, issues changing parts etc to get it right I just dont see it as a viable option for reliability. In my opinion, the Hemi swap is pretty tried and reliable and it seems the LS swaps are just as good but seem to get back into that tweeking to get it right, I am probably not up to speed on LS swaps but that is my interpretation putting a GM motor/ECU/can bus into the Chrysler BCM/can bus.
In addition, I am not a fan of the terrible (IMO in an heavy JK) 42rle auto transmission in the 07-11 JK. Boosting or increasing displacement on the 3.8 still leaves you with this piece of crap transmission that cannot put the power down to the ground effectively or reliably. Just my opinion.
Getting myself confused on which thread I am on, I would recommend getting your axle gears sorted out first UNLESS you have unlimited funds and ability/time to swap engines is the best first step, if nothing else to help that transmission last a little longer. My previous post may be a little contradictory to that statement but combining the threads I am a bit unsure on what youre expecting from either of these modifications (axle gearing/power increase). If youre running less that 4.88 axle gears swapping will be a noticeable upgrade that might be all you need and would be even better with more power. If youre looking for more than just making it not frustrating to drive (engine swap/etc) my recommendation would be AEV 5.7 545 auto swap. It will work like it was meant to be there, service at dealer or other places without a huge explanation etc. Need a replacement motor or transmission down the road just get a factory replacement instead of doing anything custom what may bot be available years down the road.