I'm picking up a 98 5.2/5speed 4x4 with 160k on it for real cheap.

Now, I'm not specifically buying this as a tow rig (because it's so cheap) but wouldn't mind if it worked out pulling towing duty once or twice a year on longer trips (600-1200 miles one way). Probably flat tow, but I could easily borrow a trailer. Jeep is 4200 pounds.

I have a 98 Wrangler TJ with a 5.9/46RE in it. I've been wanting to swap in a 5.2 into it anyways, because I'm only getting 10 mpg and the power was less than I had expected.

Question is, if I were to swap the 5.2 and 5.9 around (not swap trannies), would the 5.9 tow considerably better than the 5.2? And would the 5.2 get a little better mileage than the 5.9? Or would I be splitting hairs?

Any input would be appreciated!

 

5.2 baby. Every Chrysler 318 I've had (and I've had 7 now) has run for a long, long time.

 

If they have run for a Loooooooong Looooooooong time why have you had 7?? Just messin LOL

 

Because I trashed the rest of the truck!

 

No too worried about which will last linger. I mean, they're almost the same engine.

More looking for comments on power and fuel (un)economy.

 

Remind me never!! Did I say never to let you borrow my keys LOL!!!

 

The 5.9 makes a decent amount more of low end torque, but keep in mine the NV3500 tranny behind your 5.2 wasn't put the behind the 5.9, it'll probably be fine but it's worth noting (I'm running somewhere around 350HP through my NV3500). You can't swap the flywheel/flex plates on the 5.2 and 5.9 due to balancing issues so be sure to get the correct ones for your swap.

Fuel mileage will be comparable between the 2 in a Ram.

 

Good to know. I also realized I won't be able swap the ECUs, with one as an auto, and one a manual. Doubt it will be cost productive after buying two ECUs, a 5.2 flywheel, and 5.9 flex plate. Damn.

Might as well just buy a 5.9 longblock and rebuild that for the Ram if I feel I need to later. Also could swap in an NV4500 later.

Thanks, all.

 

I would leave the motors alone if it were me, only going to start more problems then needed, you could get some HS 1.7 RR's and a sct tuner and should be close too if not over the power of the 5.9, and a tuneup, new precat O2 sensor, and fixing the plenum if not done should help the mpg on the 5.9

 

What gears do you have in the 5.2?
Hope its not 3.55