$500 Hemi! Should I convert?

[Linderballs]

I have an opportunity through a work associate to purchase a 5.7 Hemi out of a wrecked truck with everything that goes with it, even the transmission for $500. I never even considered doing the conversion, for one I love the 4.0L. But, it would be awesome!!! Do you guys think it's worth it? I wouldn't be able to do the swap anytime soon, but I'm thinking at that price, maybe I should buy it now and store it for use later. Thoughts?

 

[Chris]

Is this the 6BT? If so, I don't think it will fit. The 4BT can fit with a lot of work, but I'm not certain about the 6BT.

I did a lot of research on the 4BT when I was going to go that route. Not worth it IMHO.

Way too heavy, louder than piss (and if you spend a lot of time with your top and doors off it will drive you insane how loud it is), and a V8 just ends up being the better option if you ask me.

 

[Rob5589]

Is the 5.7L hemi not a v8?

 

[Chris]

Oh wait... WTF was I thinking... For some reason you said Hemi and I read Cummins... Where is my mind?

If it's a Hemi, then yes, I would do it!

 

[Linderballs]

I was looking at conversion kits and wow!$$$ Do y'all think the NV3500 would stand up to it ok? What about stock NP 231?

 

[Chris]

Here's one part that might help:
http://www.hotwireauto.com/files/Install_TJ_Hemi_Conversion.pdf

And here's the answers to almost every question you'll have (hopefully):
http://www.novak-adapt.com/knowledge/engines/swap-guides/chevy-buick-gm/tj-swap

It might not cover the Hemi specifically, but it's going to give you a good idea of what you'll need and what you can re-use.

 

[Chris]

BTW, @Stinger might have some insight on this as usual. I know the main reason he went with a Chevy V8 was because parts are more readily available (and cheaper), which is also why I lean towards a Chevy V8 as well.

However, the Hemi undoubtedly wins for "cool" factor.

 

[Stinger]

Ya Hemi is cool and for $500 complete I would jump on it!
I wanted a Hemi just for the compatibility but could not find anything worth the $$$$ after months of searching.
That is the biggest reason I went with the VOTEC and 6L90 transmission. (Already had an Atlas). Plus 360 hp and 390 pound feet of torque from the factory and about 175 pounds lighter than the 4.0.

Now reread that last sentence and pay attention to the power ratings. I am just waiting for the D44s to blow. I have really been babying the throttle off road. I didn't say being a baby wheeling as the last trip to Moab I did all of the "optional" obstacles of the runs. However, I know that the 44s and their chromoly axles shafts are going to fail if I am not super careful.

FWIW

 

[Linderballs]

Man thanks for the replies everyone! Definitely some good info! I talked with the guy several times and the story started changing from, "yeah runs great" to, "ya it should fire up" to, well not sure where the computer is but I can find ya one but it'll be extra, etc. Plus after looking at what all is entailed, I think I'm just gonna pass for now. Thanks again for all the info!

 

[Chris]

What is it they say? If it sounds to good to be true, it probably isn't?

Yep... That applies to almost everything in life. A Hemi for $500? I knew it seemed fishy.

 

[Linderballs]

Indeed!