engine/frame

I am looking to replace or have my 304 v8 engine on my jeep 73 rebuilt.Is their a stamp on the engine that will tell me the year of the engine.I am not sure what year it is.Is it better to get it rebuilt or by a rebuilt one, or Is it easy just to rebuild it myself.Are their any books on rebuilding the engine.Also looking to replace the frame any place where to get a frame at a good price

 

The tag is on the valve cover as I recall. I'd have to look at my TSM. If you don't already have the TSM for '73, they are available as reprints http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...f=sr_1_5/103-0339145-3326276?v=glance&s=books

Depends on what your skill and/or confidence level is. Here's a good book about building engines in general http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...f=sr_1_5/103-0339145-3326276?v=glance&s=books That and the TSM should be enough info to do it yourself.

Unless you want to buy a custom tube frame ($$), you'll need to buy a used frame from another Jeep in the '72-75 range.

 

I've been browsing E-Bay and have seen a few CJ frames out there for sale. Give it a try, you might get lucky.

 

According to my 73 service manual there should be a code tag rivited to the right bank valve cover. The manual doesn't give specifics on years. It states the following 3 letters denote the following: H=304 ci, 2 bl carb, 8.4 t0 1 comp ratio, N=360, 2 bl,8.5 to 1, P=360, 4 bl, 8.5 to 1. To further ID the displacement is cast into the block on both banks between the 1st and 2nd core plugs. If there are further letters on the valve cover tag such as b,m,p,pm,c they denote original machining tolerances on certain components were not std. Ie. bore, mains,rods, mains&rods and cam were usually .010 under. I don't suppose this helps much as I don't know where to find data for years of manufacture.

 

In addition to the information already provided, try this link:

http://www.amcrc.com/tech/engine.html

Best of luck.

 

304's for sale at Collins Brothers:

http://store.yahoo.com/collinsbros/remen.html

"76-81 304 V-8 Fully assembled long block76-81 304 V-8 Fully assembled long block is $1595.00 after core is returned to Collins Brothers.

Our 76-81 304 V-8 engines are completely rebuilt using quality parts, and come with gasket sets and Melling high volume oil pumps. Engines are not painted. 12 mo. Warranty does not include labor or freight. $250.00 Core charge in stock for immediate delivery."