[kannabisking420]

Ok, I have a 1952 cj3a that I would like to put a chevy v8 in. It currently has a ford pinto engine in it. I just want to know what engine would be the best choice and what all I would have to do to fit it to the trans, and whatever else. I have the T90 trans. BTW I am working with about $1000-$1200, but I would like to use as little as possible. Thnx.

[F Bill]

Check out Novak Adapters, http://www.novak-ada...ntegrations.htm and back issues of the four wheel drive mags for some info. For your budget it can't be done nicely. Too big and powerful an engine for the stock drivetrain, next you will be asking how to keep driveshafts and axles from breaking..THE engine compartment is very tight with a V8, especially if you add modern power steering etc. That Pinto motor is really not that bad an option, but if you want more engine look into a V6.The older jeep buick 225 is a fairly well known swap that can use stock marts for the most part...and they perform great on the trail. Also the 4.3 and other GM 6's are decent motors and fairly well supported with all sorts of aftermarket stuff. I own a Pinto 3A myself, it was a poorly done swap and I am still working on getting the engine located properly ane finishing of all the little details the junkyard mechanic who owned it before didn;t take care of.. (things like a hole I can see the engine thru in the firewall, for instance..lol) With what little I have driven it it seems to be the perfect modern engine for a jeep that is used as a daily driver and occasional trail rig.

Just my opinion, worth whatcha paid for it.

[kannabisking420]

I was thinking a v8 would pretty hard to fit in. I would like to get a dauntless 225....but them damn things are hard to find. The pinto engine just seems to be weak and not have much "get up and go".

[tim white]

kannabisking420, on 25 June 2011 - 02:56 PM, said:

I was thinking a v8 would pretty hard to fit in. I would like to get a dauntless 225....but them damn things are hard to find. The pinto engine just seems to be weak and not have much "get up and go".

I have dauntless engine complete, sitting on my garage floor. It needs a complete rebuild. I know it has 2 cam lobes or lifters failed. It did try to fire up when still in CJ5. It comes with that heavy, heavy flywheel with original bell housing. No exhaust manifolds.
Considering that you would have to pay for shipping, I would take $200.00 for it. 843-406-3055...after 9:00am est please.

This post has been edited by tim white: 26 June 2011 - 03:36 PM

[F Bill]

If that doesn't work I have a 60 DJ3A with a 225 in it, I would trade ya engine and gearbox even for the pinto setup, but, the engine has rusted and won't turn over. It also has a t 90, which needs a rebuild, due to storage rust. It was a complete and running jeep before someone let it sit. Located in Coleman Texas. 76834.

By the way, have you checked your timing belt on the Pinto motor? Off a tooth will run like poop.

[kannabisking420]

Thanks for the offers guys, but I'm not interested in rebuilding an engine as i've never done anything that into depth with engines before. If either of you had running engines i'd definitely trade you and/or throw in a little cash.

[Robert Moledor]

I agree with all of the above, a Buick 225 V6 will be more than enough to make your Willys jump, it's a popular swap and Advance Adapters can furnish all the parts to match up the motor to tranny but don't kid yourself $1000 to $1200 isn't likey to get you a mechanically sound nice looking install.

[Justin]

I am finishing up my Willys frame off resto as we speak. but as far as your concerns go about a GM V8 fitting in there i think these pics will help !!

[kannabisking420]

Hey guys. Haven't been on in a while. Since my last post I have acquired a dauntless 225, buick bell housing, new input shaft(I think its the right one), and an adapter plate to fit the bell housing to a t90 so I'm getting there. Like a dumb@$$ I bought the parts individually instead of buying the kit from novak(not that it makes a difference anyway) I have a question though. How do I remove the oil collector from the transmission? he shaft is getting stuck,and I cannot remove the input shaft until I take out the oil collector...right? I have removed the two allen wrench bolt holding the collector, but I cant seem to get the thing out. Do I have to take apart the whole trans in order to get the oil collector out or what? I'm stumped. any help is appreciated.