A big reason Jeep has remained one of the most beloved 4x4 brands for over 80 years is the almost limitless ways to customize its vehicles. From the old-school Jeep CJ and Wrangler YJ to the latest Jeep Wrangler JL, DIYers can use OEM or aftermarket parts to create custom Jeeps.
If you want the most adrenaline per dollar, though, a Jeep conversion package is the way to go. These packages make it easier to swap powertrain components so you can enjoy added horsepower, torque and reliability for everything from dune bashing to towing. Here are three types of Jeep conversion packages to consider and how they help Jeep owners immerse themselves in the outdoor lifestyle.
Jeep Engine Conversions
Although a decades-old Jeep is often still rugged enough to take on tough terrain, a tired engine may limit you. Converting to a new engine unlocks new possibilities for your off-roading. It doesn’t have to be a Jeep engine, either — swapping veteran V6 Jeeps to Chevy LS engines and other V8 power plants is popular in the modding community.
Of course, you need more than just the engine to complete the switch. A Jeep engine conversion package contains a variety of parts to complete the process, including transmission and bellhousing adapters, replacement motor mounts, fittings and slave cylinders. Some even include high-performance radiators and caps to help dissipate the extra heat a more powerful engine generates. Visit our Tech Vault Knowledge Base to find engine conversion information for generations of Jeeps.
Jeep Transmission Swaps
Even if you’ve upgraded the engine, you still must get that power to the wheels. A new Jeep transmission is sometimes necessary to handle the added power. Even if you’re not changing the engine, a new transmission can help you utilize the current motor more effectively. Go from a manual transmission to an automatic or vice versa, put a heavy-duty transmission in for extreme terrain or change to new gear ratios that give you better low-speed performance.
Transmissions like the TR4050 5-speed, NV4500 and AX15 have gained steam among Jeep owners. Like with engine conversions, you’ll need some additional equipment to change transmissions. These include mounts, engine and transmission case adapters, input and output shafts, yokes and transmission cooler lines. You might even add a new shifter to grab those gears.
Jeep Transfer Case Conversions
Switching to a different transfer case is another way to enhance Jeep 4x4 performance. Some Jeeps only have a one-speed transfer case; switching to a two-speed or even a four-speed transfer case will give you more gear ratios to adjust the torque delivery. Replacing an existing dual-range transfer case is sometimes necessary as well to achieve the right final drive ratio.
Get the low-range gears you want with a transfer case from another vehicle or an aftermarket Atlas Jeep transfer case. With our custom Jeep transfer case builders, you can specify the gear ratio so it suits how you drive. We also include installation equipment upon request with all the necessary parts and hardware.