Engine swap for 232

Hi , My CJ5 is now on the road and I have noticed extremely tappy when warm. I have read various posts about oil additives etc and will try.

As there are a few US engines in UK from 70's era I was wondering if the I6 from later YJ and Wrangler models is basically the same and would connect up to existing 1974 clutch housing, input shaft, ehaust and inlet manifold etc.

Obviously alot of electrical senders etc. will not get used.

 

What's your oil pressure?

A set of lifters (cam followers) would be a lot less expensive than a replacement engine.

You could use either the 4.2L normally aspirated inline 6 or the fuel injected 4.0L from the Wrangler. They both will bolt up to your bellhousing, and set down on the engine mounts with no changes.

 

Capillary gauge did show 50 - when first fitted. Now 25 when started cold dropping to about 5/10 when warm with tappet sounds then starting.

I have come by a replacement oil pump so will fit that first. Hoping that the oil pan comes off without engine lift. Seems to be enough clearance from looking?

 

The AMC inline 6s are not known for oil pressure problems. I would suspect that you have a stuck oil pressure relief valve, or something similar. The oil pressure does not usually drop drastically unless there is a bearing failure. loss of oil, stuck relief valve, plugged oil pickup tube... something like that.

I'd take the pan off and look closely at the oil pump, relief valve and pickup tube. I'd also look for metal in the engine oil. If everything looks fine, try using Plastigage to measure the rod bearing clearances. Take the main caps off one at a time and inspect the bearing material. However, I think you are unlikely to have crankshaft bearing trouble without some accompanying noise. The only other place the oil can go is out the cam bearings. I expect you could lose oil volume if all the oil is pumped into the valve cover and does not drain back, but that seems unlikely in this modern time of detergents.

 

Looking into the rocker cover it all appears very dry. Will take sump off and check like you say and see if there are any clues.

My only questions are can I get the oil pan off without removing the engine mount. It looks like it will just about go. Secondly the pressure release valve you mentioned is connected to the oil pump I assume?

I appreciate your help with my queries as there is a big knowledge gap over the pond!