Buick 350 to 66cj

Hi Everyone;
I have a 1966 cj5 with the Dauntless engine.
I have a biuck 350 engine that I am considering putting
in. Will it bolt up or do I need to adapt?
Thanks
Cindy

 

Hi - there's lots of material about this in the archives https://www.google.com/search?q=sit...0514654581f59&bpcl=35277026&biw=1420&bih=1045

I have not done this swap, but I've seen it done in Jeepsters. As I understand it, the 300-340-350 Buicks will bolt up in place of the 225 using the factory motor mounts. You will need a flywheel that matches the engine (the 350). Th radiator will need to move forward the same distance as the difference in length between the V8 and the V6; the V8 has two more cylinders in front of the engine mounts. I believe the transmission can stay in the same place.

Comment - the 350 is too much engine for the factory 3-speed transmissions. The 300-340-350 is a great swap into the Jeepster with the TH400 automatic, but that is a much stronger transmission than the Jeep 3-speed manual transmissions used in this era. It is possible to blow up the factory 3-speeds (T-86 or T-14) with the 225, especially when the Jeep is fitted with modern (ie larger) tires.

However, the Buick V8s are great engines. A 350 Buick has enough torque to make a Wagoneer or J-truck a lively performer. Aside from breakage, this engine could be a handful in the much lighter CJ with its mmm, unsophisticated chassis design. If you do it, take it easy.

 

That is going to be a lot of torque on the T86AA you probably have for a transmission. Depending on how heavy your right foot is, it may last for a while if you don't get carried away with the tires. Other than the T84's in the Military's, the T86 is probably the weakest transmission ever used in a Jeep.

The 350 will put a grin on your face and will be drivable but IMO, you will want some stiff or adjustable shocks on the road, upgraded brakes and steering.

 

Thanks for the replies.
We have a running 350 ready to go.
The dauntless runs strong but is smoking real bad.
One way or another we will have to do something.
Cindy

 

Re the smoke, make sure your PCV valve is working.

Sounds like you don't want to spend a lot of money. Swapping a 231 cid V6 from a later Buick passenger car would be another possibility, and easier than the 350. Lots of these Jeeps get 231s, once the 225 is worn out. Smoking is typically worn rings or worn valve guides. A compression check would help to determine that. What's the 225's hot idle oil pressure?

 

I did a 300 swap. I am absolutely thrilled with the swap. It is an externally balanced engine, so a Dauntless flywheel has to be matched at a competent machine shop. In addition, you have to swap the early grille for a late model, and I highly recommend an aftermarket cross flow radiator.