XJ jeep is a compact sport utility vehicle well known for its boxy types outlook and unibody construction. Whether on-road or off-road, this vehicle will give you satisfactory performance ever. But, when it comes to XJ engines, people seek more powerful engines like LS engines.
However, is it possible to do a jeep XJ LS swap? Yes, it’s possible to swap the XJ LS jeep. To do it, you need some supporting equipment such as setting tools, motor mounts, power adder, transmission, accessory drive, wiring harness, etc.
This informative article will show you how to successfully swap a Jeep XJ LS engine using only a few essential tools.
Table of Contents
How To Do A Jeep XJ LS Swap?
It’s elementary to swap an LS engine under an XJ. The LS engine will be the focal point when you think it’s the right time to get a complete makeover of your jeep XJ. And you’ll need some equipment that will work with your machine.Â
We have discussed all you need to know about the equipment and the procedures here.
Equipment:
To give your work a successful conclusion, you need the following equipment:
1. Setting up equipment
2. Mounts for motors
3. Power multiplier
4. Transmission
5. Driven by an accessory
6. Harness wiring
7. Exhaust/Header
8. Items of clothing
9. Manifold for intake
10. Crossmember for Transmission
Procedures:
This section will teach you the essential steps to begin your swapping jeep XJ LS engine
Step 1: Select the Swap-in-a-Box kit
When swapping engines, think about the mounts that keep the engine in place. Pick up any “Swap-in-a-Box” kit that includes everything you’ll need to replace an LS over your Jeep XJ’s fenders. Also, choose a kit box that contains heads, engine frame mounts, oil pans, transmission mounts, etc.Â
Step 2: Setting up the exhaust
Previously, setting up custom headers was difficult for swapping. Nowadays, some of the brands available include complete pipe sets that clean the engine bay easily of any jeep. They offer titles and different coatings for your old XJ. Once you’ve set up your particular XJ, you don’t have to stress about setup.
Step 3: Install the Torque Converter and TransmissionÂ
Even though the bolt types are different, you don’t need an adapter to connect an older Turbo transmission to an LS. However, you can use a bespoke torque converter. Apart from that, you can also use a spacer to modify the torque converter’s mounting position and spacing accordingly.Â
The spacer makes installation easier by pushing the flexplate closer to the transmission, so it correctly installs into the torque converter. However, it will be better if the torque converter shouldn’t be installed any closer to the engine area than a one-an-half inch.
If you continue, there is a possibility that the converter will not correctly align with the input shaft as well as the transmission pump.Â
Step 4: Maintain your LS coolness
Next, make sure your transplanted LS engine stays cool beneath. People have the misconception that they can retain their factory radiator and find accurate conversion hoses. Although it is the reality, this is only sometimes possible.
Step-5: Adjust Throttle Body Control
To adjust throttle body control, apply one of the solutions listed below:
Solution A:
Consider “drive-by-wire” types of throttling body engines, such as a Gen III, Gen IV, or higher. In that circumstance, purchasing and placing a “pedal position sensor” is the most convenient approach, and it’s simple to install and keeps the engine bay clean.
Solution B:
In addition, you can reflash the PCM with the operating system that came with the throttle body when it was wired to be driven by cable. This is often only possible with Gen III engines fitted on both sides of an XJ.
Step 6: Computer wiring and configuration
Wiring and configuration is likely the most difficult aspect of the LS swap. However, electronics have become significantly more advanced in recent years, so adding complexities to any updated engine could be swapping in your vehicle.
Besides, some manufacturers have taken great care to ensure that changing an LS is as easy as plugging it in. Using their stand-alone wire harnesses, you won’t need much wiring skills to install an LS.
There are three wiring harnesses for LS swapping: freestanding, bespoke, and rewired from the original. Due to its low price and the ease of having it done by a professional, the third choice is the most preferred.
Step 7: Fuel system optimization
You will need to keep the fuel pressure at a consistent 58 psi to complete the LS swap for the jeep XJ. There are various ways to accomplish this, and installing an upgraded fuel pump is the simplest.Â
You can also purchase customized tanks outfitted with advanced fuel tank transmitter components to satisfy your individual needs.
Step 8: Air intake tuning
The air intake installation is the final step in converting the XJ to an LS engine. You can buy a universal or air intake kit made specifically for the LS swap here on jeep XJ.
Likewise, it’s essential to think about whether the car will have a widespread airflow sensor. Otherwise, it will be a speed density sensor. Hence, utilize a throttle body filter or a straight pipe with a connected filter for a speed-density arrangement.
Why Do People Want To Swap Jeep XJ LS?
The LS engine is compact, lightweight, and strong, and its inside and outside can extract much more power without sacrificing reliability. Moreover, this high-quality engine can improve the performance of almost any vehicle.
Furthermore, these small-sized, lightweight, and long-lasting engines are a solid investment for every car owner seeking to convert older vehicles with greater power, improved air intake, enhanced performance, and increased longevity. Therefore, people want to perform LS swaps on older jeep XJs.
FAQs
The following is some more information we have gathered below to understand swapping better.
Which XJ models are compatible with LS swapping?
Any XJ can be upgraded to meet current power requirements by using the LS V8. Thus, you can reprogram the computers for models made after 1995 with a swapped engine; you can rapidly fix older, difficult-to-program models by buying a separate engine control unit (ECU).
Is the Jeep XJ fast?
The car has achieved a quarter-mile time of 8.44 seconds while traveling 162 miles per hour. However, because it continued to grenade Torqueflite transmissions, it now runs a less competent Powerglide unit.
Final Words
The jeep XJ LS swap is a straightforward procedure. Any necessary parts, such as intakes and pickup tubes can be purchased from one or more suppliers to finalize your swap process without fabrication.
However, ensure that you comply with all necessary safety procedures to avoid any risks. Avoid any flammable products and work in a well-ventilated environment as well.