Thu Feb  7 10:44:24 2008

RE:  Mercedes Diesel swap
 # http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=940087

main problems:
	- engine to transmission adaptation
	- or benz trans to jeep xfr case (most promisinig solution)
	- oil pan clearance to axle, need rear sump

I chose to go with the 6.2L Diesel in my '91 Grand Wagoneer.. availability,
familiarity, durability, simplicity, cost, it's a V8, my SJ had a V8...
adapters available for GM to Jeep xfr cases.

Motor mount kit and radiator available...

I'll be gathering up pictures and details and do a full write up.

basic parts needed beyond the 6.2L/700R4:
	- chevy big block motor mounts, $150
	- chevy radiator for jeep, needs larger in/out, or adapters $250
	- oil cooler $75-100
	- novak adapter (forgot cost, probably around $450)
	- different exhaust downheader

going to get the exhaust system installed tomorrow if I can take the day off.
:)

john

one thread on the link provided by jim noted a lot of the issues:

 spinsession  spinsession is offline
NAXJA Forum User

Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: Fenton, MI
Posts: 10
Re: to swap or not to swap.....
I too have been VERY interested in doing this. I think that there are others.
If you find a shop who will make adapter plates for you, we might be able to
drum up a group purchase to make it more worth their while.

I believe that there are other concerns with this swap, however. I saw an MJ
with a Merc. 5 cylinder in it, but his rig was 2wd and he just used the
Mercedes trans. His major problem was clearance between the front differential
housing and the oil pan. His MJ was originally 4wd, so he just swapped in the
straight 2wd front axle without a pumpkin and his problem was solved. It's not
just a matter of building a custom oil pan either though because the oil pump
sits right where the clearance problem is. I saw one guy try to adapt an
electric remote oil pump. He then built a custom oil pan similar to the XJ in
shape. His engine seized after about 5000 miles, evidently he wasn't flowing
enough oil. I saw another guy who pulled off this swap while keeping his 4wd.
His solution was 8+" of lift and LONG bump stops to keep the differential off
the oil pan. He built his own adapter plate and flywheel to bolt to the AX-15.
He also wound up plating the entire front part of the frame with 1/4" steel
after the first set of mounts shredded the XJ sheet metal. The last person I
saw attempt this decided to mount the engine higher in the bay. This led to
severe cutting of the trans tunnel, followed by a messy rebuild of the area.
Then the paint on his hood fried because the motor was too close to it.
Overall, that one was a hack job. I don't mean to discourage you, but I've
done a lot of reading (and dreaming) about doing this conversion. It's just
not as easy as coming up with an adapter plate (although that would be a major
step in the right direction). If you can figure out a way to make it work, I
will be the first to congratulate you, and then promptly copy you. Btw...for
the record, the three examples I cited did make it work...sorta. It can be
done! I park my 300 Wagon next to my XJ every day with the hope that one day
the two might become one. lol Seriously though, if I can be of any help I'd
love to work together on this. If you need pictures of either vehicle or have
specific questions about the components, I'll do my best to lend a hand.

Unless you're set on the Mercedes motor, I know that guys have pretty good
success with the Cummins 4bt swap. Not nearly as pimp as popping the hood and
seeing the Mercedes star though! Good luck!

    -----
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 Snohomish, Washington  -o|||||o-  where Jeeps don't rust, they mold
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 there's a solution for every problem;
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On Wed, 6 Feb 2008, Jim Blair wrote:

 # These guys are getting around to it. Anyone got some ideas for them?
 # http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=940087
 #
 # Jim Blair, Lynnwood, WA '87 Comanche, '83 Jeep J10, '84 Jeep J10