Ok guys,lots of great input on the Wrangler V8 conversion,now another option. I found a guy that has an '84 CJ with a stock 258,a T19 granny low 4 speed,Dana 20 tc, and D44 front and rear axles,most of which all came from a 74 to 79 Scout.The front axle has a lockrite,rear axle has a spool,both have 4:88 gears running 36x12.50 super swampers.He used the stock leaf spring locations on the front and added some tubing to the outer frame rails to match up with springs.I was suprised at how well it drove.My question is, does this seem to be a good drive train set up?I do probably 90% off road and 10 on road.The other thing is he wants $5500.00 for it.The body is clean ,some rust,decent interior,good frame-no rust.Also has a Superwinch similar to the worm gear driven Warn.But does this sound like a decent off road drivetrain or should I go ahead with the V8 conv. on my 90 Wrangler,and look for a rear end swap,tc,and tranny?

If the motor is strong and the tires aren't bald, I'd do it. The t-19 is the Scout version of the t-18...good strong cast iron tranny. The Dana 20 is also strong, cast iron, all gears t-case. Not much to go wrong with either and both wil take ALOT of abuse. The D20s only downfall is the crappy low range of 2.03:1, but if t-19 has the 6.31:1 low range and with the 4:88 cogs I wouldn't worry about the Dana 20...you'll have plenty of crawling ability (62:1 crawl ratio). The Dana 44s are pretty stout too. The spool is almost indestructable.

The axle setup is the same as mine assuming its SUA (i.e. springs outboard the frame). I don't have any complaints about mine at all. The Scout caster is zero degrees versus the CJ caster of anywhere from 3-6 degrees, but that has not been a problem for me. The steering just doesn't return to center as fast as it did before.

To build up your YJ to that solid of a drivetrain (d44 axles, t-19, gear swap, spool, locker, 36x12.50s) would easily cost you a few thousand on the cheap, more if your not doing all the work yourself.

I'd want to know the answers to the following:
Why is the guy selling? Who set up the gears? How long ago? Any gear whine at high speed? What brand gears? Who outboarded the d44? Was the t-19 overhauled before install? Was a new clutch disk, throwout bearing, pressure plate used? What brand? Any receipts (for the locker, spool, clutch, etc).

If the jeep is in the condition you say, I would pay $5000 for it.
Just my $.02.

Shain


77 CJ7, D44s, Detroits, 4:27s, 35 SSRs, HS9500i
84 CJ8, 33s, REP8000
70 Commando

Sounds like a great set up to me. Around here that jeep would go for more than that.

K-16

I agree with the other guys. If the 258 is in good shape and the body is in good shape then I feel it is a good deal.
The T-19 is a GREAT tranny and better yet it will have a sencronized first gear.
I would say go for it!!!

The T19 does have the granny low.The 258 has about 90k miles,doesnt smoke,starts and runs very well.He wants to sell so he can buy a hot rod and play on the street(yawn),the gears were installed in the last two years(forgot to ask what type)the clutch kit was installed over the winter,I will have more info this week end,going back for a closer look. The windshield frame & tailgate are new(steel),589 alum. wheels,front cage installed.He also did the SOA conversion.Again I'm shocked how well it drives(as good if not better than my YJ),there is no gear noise.Seems to be pretty solid all around.The best part my wife (definately not a Jeep Chick,hates mud)actually liked it.I'll keep you posted,again THANKS for the input!!!!!

Edder