New to diesels, but not to 4WD and conversions; done a few gas conversions etc. But in this case, I'd like someone with knowledge to weigh in on this and let me know if I'm nuts or going in the right direction.

I've seen a few conversion to diesel using the 4BT series engines into Broncos, Landcruisers (FJ-55), Scouts etc., but no one has converted a Jeep Cherokee over to diesel. I've heard of diesel Cherokees that were sold overseas, but they tend to be underpowered. With rising gas costs and the possibility of better mileage as well as torque, I'd like to do a coversion to my 95 Cherokee. Here's what my initial plans are:

4BT engine, beefed up Turbo 700 R4 (for overdrive), coupled to new JB Conversions NP 231 transfer case. My front and rear axles are D30 and D44, respectively, with alloy D44 axles and heavy duty disc brakes all around. My suspension has been highly modified (up about 6 inches) with long radius control arms up front, tall rear leaf springs and Bilstein shocks.

Does this sound insane? Is this possible? If so, are there any good sites where I can exchange info?

Thanks,
Richard Gibson
Huntsville, AL

 

I will only comment that the Cherokee is very light in the frame and suspension department. It is also a carbon copy of a ram design.

 

Personally it would make a killer combo IMO, Ive beat my 3 cherokees to no end and they hold up no problem. Bet ya could make a conversion kit and sella bunch. Check out NAXJA web site and see if any have been done yet with your particular combo.

 

I've checked out all the Jeep forums (naxja, jeepforum and pirate4x4) and have found very little info. If anyone has done the conversion, they haven't come up on line and let anyone know. Looks like a simple (somewhat) conversion, probably easier than the SBC I stuffed into an extended cab S10. If I get this conversion started, I will document and probably attempt to publish a conversion booklet, much like "Jaguars That Run" some years ago that put SBC into XJ sedans. Right now, I'm in the research and pricing stage; looking for an engine as I can get the rest easily.

 

The TDR has a conversion forum, you might want to poke around in there for info.

I think the TH700R4 will hold a 4BT as long as you don't crank it up too much.

 

Yeah, the 700R4 had some strength issues early on, but those have been ironed out with the rebuilders and parts people. I'm not planning on dialing up anything for a while and if at all, not much. I don't like breaking axles, pinions and ring gears etc- only U-joints which can be replaced easily. I'll check out the TDR site and see what I can dig up, but I'm guessing there won't be a whole lot in print right now. Most of the XJ guys stick with gas stroker motors, but I'd like to go a different route for the torque.

 

the dana 30 is gonna have to go! I know my cherokees here and your gonna need to plate and brace the unirails more. once the engine is set add a few crossmembers. check out jeepspeed.com for ideas on how to strengthen the body up. truthfuly i havent been there in awhile but it should still have the info or people to ask. Truly consider loking for a new wrecked diesel liberty to get everything. its gonna be easier to just grab all the things you need there.

 

i cant believe anyone would want to use a 700 behind anything.

 

Here is a link to a site where a guy converted a ZJ to a Diesel.

http://www.canev.com/Jeep.html