Specifications

engine conversions (1941-79)
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ENGINE LOCATION:
Many people become overly concerned about moving the transmission, resulting in driveshaft modifications. The value of a good
engine location requiring driveshaft modifications will far exceed the expenses of an installation requiring special cooling due to
poor engine location.
We design most transfer case adapters to eliminate driveshaft modifications (whenever
possible). This normally pertains to the newer type Jeeps with the longer wheel base. In order
to position your new engine, it is usually mandatory that the original engine mounts be removed
from the chassis. When placing the new motor into the chassis, several factors determine the
best possible location.
A. Firewall Clearance: Allow adequate clearance between the distributor & firewall. Be
sure that the distributor can be removed easily. Make sure the engine can be worked on without
having to remove it from the vehicle.
B. Front Axle Clearance: Check the oil pan and harmonic balancer for axle housing
clearance. Double check the suspension clearance if bottoming out. Location of the motor mounts will require some vehicles to
relocate their front axle snubber.
C. Hood Clearance: When the air cleaner is in position, will the hood still close? On certain applications, special low profile
air cleaners may be required.
D. Driveshaft Clearance & Angularity: The front driveshaft should have sufficient clearance to pass the bellhousing and
starter. When using a transmission other than what was stock, front driveshaft clearances may be an issue. On vehicles up to 1979,
the drivetrain should be offset 1” to the driver’s side to obtain additional clearance. The angle of the rear driveshaft is very critical,
and compensation can be made by either axle shims or lowering the transfer case.
E. Steering Box Clearance: Most stock 4WD engines are offset to the driver's side 1/2" to 1” to line up the transfer case and
differential yoke. On some new motors, this may cause interference with the stock pitman arm or the steering box. On early Jeeps
retaining the stock steering, make sure the pitman arm and oil filter have clearance. On Jeeps manufactured before 1971, a popular
alternative is to switch to Saginaw steering. We offer complete kits on upgrading your early Jeep to Saginaw steering.
1972-79 Steering Upgrade: Jeep replacement steering shafts, we carry heavy duty replacement steering shafts for Jeep
1972 to 1979. Jeep’s original steering shaft assembly was not designed for the added stress of body lifts and oversize tires.
We carry the Borgeson’s replacement assembly’s which have a telescoping shaft with two precision needle bearing u-joints.
The steering assembly is easy to install with common hand tools. Once installed, you will experience much tighter and more
responsive steering.
P/N 716867 72-75 CJ STEERING SHAFT MANUAL BOX
P/N 716868 72-75 CJ STEERING SHAFT POWER BOX
P/N 716869 76-86 CJ STEERING SHAFT MANUAL BOX
P/N 716870 76-86 CJ STEERING SHAFT POWER BOX
F. Radiator Clearances: Proper spacing and centering of the fan with the radiator is necessary for optimum cooling. If you
are having a problem in this area, an alternative is an electric cooling fan. These fans are popular for engine conversions, since
they can be mounted on the front or backside of the radiator and don’t require engine placement considerations when using an
engine-driven fan.
G. Front Crossmember Clearance: On Jeeps 1971 & older, the crossmember is located just ahead of the original engine.
This may have to be removed or modified for additional clearance. These modifications may cause problems because the stock
steering bellcrank is located on this crossmember. You have the option of replacing the existing crossmember with a new structural
crossmember (to be located directly beneath the radiator). By doing this, you will be required to upgrade to a Saginaw steering system.
A second option is to section the existing crossmember to provide ample clearance for the new engine, and re-gusseting this stock
crossmember for strength. By retaining the original crossmember, you will be able to retain the original Jeep steering linkage. We
feel the best solution is to remove the existing crossmember and add Saginaw steering.
H. Exhaust Manifold/Header Clearance: If headers are planned for the vehicle, it is best to purchase them before the
installation of the engine. Although we make headers for several different applications, a perfect fit can never be guaranteed. When
locating the engine, have the headers or stock manifolds in place and check the following for clearances: firewall, brake & clutch
pedals through travel, steering box or linkage, body & frame, heater/defroster, and battery. When placing the engine into position,
be sure and have your engine exhaust system mounted on the engine. This ensures all proper clearances are maintained.