4.0 Stroker

[nate]

I've been having trouble with the ZJ in the power department. It's fine around town, on the trails, etc, but when I take it on the highway, it struggles to climb hills and generally feels like it lacks power. Sometimes I have to look back to see if I'm pulling a trailer or something.

It's very annoying, because I know tons of 4.0 ZJs are riding around on the highway with 35s, 37s, etc and having no problems. Why me? :cry:

I'm running 4.56s and 33s, so gearing is fine. I thought it was an engine/tranny problem, so I dropped it off at a reputable shop. It's been there for a while, and they haven't been able to find anything wrong with it. I wish it was one of those easy fixes like a plugged cat or something, but that's just not the case.

I've been thinking about building a stroker engine. A nicely built 4.6-4.7L can put out more power than a 5.2L.

Just looking for opinions, rough idea of total cost, etc. I've found a few kits, but they are running over $2000. I'd think it could be done cheaper.

Brentt, I know your running a 4.6L. Could you give me some details on your buildup?

[JeepinHank]

Sent this link to a buddy of mine this morning:

http://www.jeep4.0performance.4mg.com/stroker.html

There are a couple of good low-buck recipies in there. Depending on what you want, and how much of the work you can/will do yourself, I think there are some pretty affordable options there.

[Alaska ZJ]

I can tell you that my Dad did the work and that he was a Mechanic in the NHRA before he became a family man......

Noah is having one put together at ADB. $$ but worth it.

All said and done I spent about 1200 bucks. But that was with my old man doing almost ALL of the work.

I love mine and I can bake all 4 tires pretty easy.

[Creech]

I wheel with a guy here that had Hesco build his stroker kit in his TJ. I want to say he paid out the nose for it. Something like 3K+ :shock: , but it's one bad mother. Here's another link for you: http://www.bc4x4.com/tech/bryce/stroker/research.cfm

[nate]

Thanks for the help. I'm seriously considering this... hmm, wonder how long my 42RE will last with that kind of power?

Here's info on the Hesco kit. http://www.hescosc.com/H8799S030.html