66 Cj5 Engine Decision

I am in the process of trying to rebuild a 66 CJ5 my wife inherited from her grandfather. It had a trashed 327 chevy in it which I promptly removed hoping to find a 225 odd fire. After looking forever I found one and when it went to the machine shop I learned it had internal freeze cracks. So the block is trash. Looking for advice on whether to continue pursuing the 225 route and hope to find a good block, or is there an easier and less expensive route to go that will provide better results. She just wants a reliable car to drive on occasion, nothing extreme. But enough power to get out of its own way.

Thanks for your feedback

 

If it’s set up for a small block go 4.3 Chevy 6.

 

Welcome from another CJ5 addict in Spokane!

I'm in the process of a frame off rebuild of a '67 with a 225 odd fire. The engine is currently at S & J for a rebuild.

I do have another 225 block of unknown condition.

Providing that the one at S &J is rebuildable, I might be willing to part with it.

Also, have you talked with Dylan at We R Jeeps, he is out in Cheney. He is a wealth of knowledge and parts.

 

I would think there are lots of 225's (Dauntless) in your neck "O" the woods. Lots of members in that portion of the country. Run a want to buy in the classified section of the forum. Welcome from Ga.

 

+1 Both easier and less expensive than a Buick V6.

These engines are plentiful and should be an easy replacement for a SBC. Look around for a complete car to use as an engine donor - these engines were used in lots of cars and light trucks. General Motors 90° V6 engine - Wikipedia Hear it run.

Most of these engines (1985-6 trucks being the exception) are equipped with factory fuel injection, either throttle body or multiport. If you get the whole vehicle, you can easily transfer it all.

First post! Welcome from Boston!

 

if it had a chevy V8
a 4.3 swap is the way to go
and you still have a choice carb or fuel injection

 

How bad is the 327?

 

Pretty much stock. Small lift and bigger tires, but the rest will be pretty stock. While it had a SBC in it, it was a hack farmer upgrade. Thanks everyone for the info. I appreciate it.

 

Thanks I will give Dylan a call. When do you think you will know about your block over at S & J? Can I ask what the rebuild ran from them?

 

I got rid of it. Too heavy for my interests and too much stress on the rest of the drive train. I am thinking a V6 will give enough power, save some weight and be easier on the trans, transfer and differentials. Thank You

 

Thanks for the advice. I have posted that WTB as you suggested. Its nice having all the help on here. Just learned about the board yesterday....I will get some pics on here one of these days. Currently it is off the frame installing lift, converting brakes, adding rear gas tank and almost ready to test fit engine and then move on to the body.

 

I don't have a whole lot of time to spare these days, but if you need a hand with anything, or any special tools, I might be able to help; I'm just across the border. Welcome to the forum.

 

Welcome.
When I needed an engine, I went Buick 225 odd fire. I like the quirkiness of it. It weighs 100lbs less than the FHead and has 100 more HP, sorta.. To do again, if I had trouble finding a good Oddfire, I would not hesitate to go FI 4.3.

Good luck and post pics!

 

My 67 came with a 283 small block Chevy installed by a previous owner that replaced the original V6. It's in mild tune that doesn't feel like it is too much for the drive train and its really grown on me in the 5 months I've owned it. I do go easy on the gas pedal. An un- hot rodded 283 is nice little motor. Mine's in the process of getting a Holley two barrel as I am converting back from a propane fuel system. There are lots of good suggestions in this thread and a V6 does interest me, but less than it used to. if I had a Jeep that a 327 was installed in and was looking for a replacement I'd be looking for a 283.

 

my vote is another corvette engine!!! or a 4.3 if you want to be reasonable.

 

Dylan's number is (509) 280-7422.
I should know by next week on the rebuild from S&J.
They quoted $1700.
Check them out, I know of them from the 455 (GMC motorhome, not in a jeep) world and have a great reputation.

 

I spoke with S&J and they dont have any leads. Waiting to hear back from Dylan. But the good news for you is that S&J said they are rebuilding another one there and he will be calling the owner today to tell him its done, so that must me you! So maybe your 2nd block might be un-needed...

 

I also deal with Dylan, and you cannot find a nicer person to deal with, easy going, reasonable, returns your calls quickly, although he admits some problems with calls in his area. Very fair in pricing, knowledgeable, and nice inventory.
Vince in Yakima