1986 Jeep Comanche X 2.8 Engine swap /ideas ??

[Robert U]

Can't find anyone local to rebuild and upgrade original 2.8 engine to stop the leaks and give it more power.  Same Response from most is that it can't be done.  I have a rebuilt Chevy 350 four bolt in my garage. Not totally engine savvy myself, I could use some qualified opinions and advice.. Is this an option?? Thanks   

[dasbulliwagen]

Your response from those shops sounds more like they just don't want to do it. Most places don't have the room or equipment to technically rebuild an engine in house. If you were to have them find a warranted rebuilt long block, that might be a different story. If youre looking to keep it 100 percent stock original youll have a harder time finding someone to do it. What many people do with the 2.8 trucks is to find a donor vehicle with a 3.1 or 3.4 and swap that in using the accessories and mounts from the 2.8 to bolt it in and get it to work. The flywheel or flex plate just needs to be nuetrally balanced before install. 

[Robert U]

24 minutes ago, dasbulliwagen said:

Your response from those shops sounds more like they just don't want to do it. Most places don't have the room or equipment to technically rebuild an engine in house. If you were to have them find a warranted rebuilt long block, that might be a different story. If youre looking to keep it 100 percent stock original youll have a harder time finding someone to do it. What many people do with the 2.8 trucks is to find a donor vehicle with a 3.1 or 3.4 and swap that in using the accessories and mounts from the 2.8 to bolt it in and get it to work. The flywheel or flex plate just needs to be nuetrally balanced before install. 

 

[Robert U]

Nice credentials!! Thanks for the reply. Yea, most just don't want to do it.  I like keeping it stock. I just need to find a semi local jeep guy. who not only can but likes to get greasy.. and not just for the money. I have no problems with paying. I'm just " Old School" I guess. And apparently a bit of a Dreamer. 

[Pete M]

it's always an option to leave it alone and enjoy it as a classic old truck.   they don't all have to be hotrods.    but if you still have the factory carb, I'd upgrade that.

 

but the link in my signature has some threads on the 3.4L swap.  including using the mid 90s chevy fuel injection for some modern drive-ability.

[Greenjeans]

If you have some time to waste, check out my 86 XJ thread on the “other cool projects” section..

 

I was basically in the same boat with a worn out leaky 2.8 that I swapped for a Camaro 3.4.. if you can find a decent one in a junkyard..  they’re pretty old cars themselves now..  it’s not easy or as  cheap a route to go as it may seem but it’s been worthwhile for me so far.  If your original carb is serviceable, you are ahead of the game but most of those are junk.  The Weber swap cost more than a used engine (about $500-600 for the carb and electric fuel pump).  I hogged out my intake and put a free flowing exhaust in which had to help.  Neutering all of the smog stuff is the best place to start if you are in a friendly state.  The 3.4 is a stroked and bored 2.8 from the factory so a good option.  If you have the ability to keep the 3.4 fuel injection, you’d be way ahead there.  I bought my Weber carb before I really knew what I was doing so I was committed to using it.  It was pretty easy to set up.  You also have the option to swap the throttle body over from a 2.8 S10 to your 2.8 or onto a 3.4 if you can get everything from the S10…computer, distributor accessories etc   But the Weber allows you to just stick with a carb to make it simple.  
 

The 3.4 came in 94-96 Camaros and Firebirds..  good luck!