Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK engine mounts

JKU 1.9L TDI swap: Is it possible?

Vestige

Vestige

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I have a 2015 JKU. I have found a donor car and i know there are conversion kits out there. I'm just looking for opinions and advice as to how doable this is. Is it even worth it? My 3.6L is starting to give me issues. I believe the head gasket left about 6 months ago and now I'm running the risk of warping the head. I could spend the $5000+ on fixing the 3.6L or spend the $5000 swapping. I have it basically worked out it would cost the same for either.
 
It's absolutely possible. But if I was doing an engine swap in a 5,000 lb vehicle that is less aerodynamic than your average cow, it wouldn't be a 90HP, 150 lb/ft engine. You'll need a calendar to track your 0-60 time.
 
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Thanks for the mentions all!

This isn't a swap that we do but have spoken to people that are doing it. I'm not much help in directing you to parts and such as I haven't done the research on this swap to know who is making good parts for it. I will caution you going into it, you'll likely spend more than you think. You have a lot to consider; adapters, electrical, fuel system, clutching and transmission, tuning, exhaust, cooling, etc. Most of these get more complex going from gas to diesel.

I would advise doing a very thorough parts list including availability and post sale service. Make sure you know exactly what you're getting into before diving in too deep. Also consider your needs. How and where are you using your Jeep? Future modifications? Use all that to determine is this is a worthwhile conversion for you. If the answer is yes, FULL SEND! Go for it and let us know how you like it when it's finished.

-Dustin
 
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I've seen it done before. I just don't have that gentleman's contact anymore. I believe he installed a tune and bigger turbo.

I have found the transmission conversion kit. I want to see if it's possible keeping the gas fuel tank as it's a big tank (will flush and clean). I may not have full highway speed, but the eco is partially what I'm after. I'm more so after the torque, and tuning capabilities. If anyone can point where and what to do about the electrical. As I have heard this is usually the part that makes the swap difficult.

Exhaust won't be an issue. Going straight off no eco. EGR has also already been deleted from the motor as well (on the current donor I'm eyeing).

To save labour costs, I'm going to attempt it myself. Of course I'd build everything up before installing (as much as possible). I understand the engine will fit, but mounting is a concern if anyone knows what mounting kit is needed that would be super cool.

I mostly use the jeep as a commuter to get my company truck. Thing is paid off now, and it's at its 10yr mark. Thinking of using it more off road in the future.
 
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I've started a swap on my 2008 Wrangler JKU. I'm in process of buying a 2011 TDI CJAA engine. It will be mounted to an NV3550 5 speed manual tranny. I'll probably go with a stage 2 tune from Malone / Tunzilla for the engine. I haven't figured out all the wiring yet, but I may create my own wiring harness. I'm buy a Whitbread Performance transmission adaptor. I'm still work on underbody and rear axle stuff. Everyone is recommending you use an intank fuel pump, you could go with an inline fuel pump as well.
 
Supergbp said:
I've started a swap on my 2008 Wrangler JKU. I'm in process of buying a 2011 TDI CJAA engine. It will be mounted to an NV3550 5 speed manual tranny. I'll probably go with a stage 2 tune from Malone / Tunzilla for the engine. I haven't figured out all the wiring yet, but I may create my own wiring harness. I'm buy a Whitbread Performance transmission adaptor. I'm still work on underbody and rear axle stuff. Everyone is recommending you use an intank fuel pump, you could go with an inline fuel pump as well.
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Why don't you do a Build Thread just in case someone else may be interested.
 
Not entirely sure why as @Dirtydog mentioned you would want to underpower a 4000 lb Jeep ?

Doing some research the stock unit has 90 HP & 155 pounds of torque which is squat . This is the same engine VW had a major scandal with years ago . They were reporting false numbers when it came to emissions .
Coincidentally watched a documentary on TV about it a year ago .

You can achieve larger numbers with better crank, cam, valve relieved pistons, larger injection pump and turbos but at what cost ?

I had my 3.8 head gaskets done at a shop along with heads machined & new throttle body for $2500.

It’s your money & Jeep but honestly doesn’t make a lot of sense considering vast majority of Wrangler swaps are LS or Hemi’s .

Even the specialist in these engine swaps Novak can’t provide much help which should be red flag to this project .

Engine swaps in any modern vehicle can be complicated . Computers , transmissions, wiring harnesses & mounting the thing can be nightmare .
 
Vestige said:
I have a 2015 JKU. I have found a donor car and i know there are conversion kits out there. I'm just looking for opinions and advice as to how doable this is. Is it even worth it? My 3.6L is starting to give me issues. I believe the head gasket left about 6 months ago and now I'm running the risk of warping the head. I could spend the $5000+ on fixing the 3.6L or spend the $5000 swapping. I have it basically worked out it would cost the same for either.
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Ok, Rebuilding an engine is a lot less headache than swapping. The rebuild is a one and done, swaps keep on giving, especially non LS or hemi. I bought a 2007 JKU that was hemi swapped in 2009, a very early swap. 16 years later, I am still tracing gremlins. I get that later swaps are better and more seamless. You would be in the same boat being it is not as common. Just my ever so expert opinion (that is a joke).
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK engine mounts
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